PM Shehbaz pushes for AI-driven customs reforms

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to implement a faceless, technology-driven customs inspection and valuation system aimed at curbing corruption, facilitating trade, and improving revenue collection. Chairing a meeting on Tuesday to review ongoing reforms in customs assessment and inspection, the prime minister stressed the need to align the system with international best practices by integrating artificial intelligence (AI), reducing human intervention, and streamlining administrative processes. He emphasised that the ultimate goal is to ensure transparency and efficiency across ports and border points. Mr Sharif instructed the FBR to minimise processing times for customs-related procedures, improve cargo clearance at ports, and enhance coordination among all relevant departments under a unified strategy.