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Karachi, The All Pakistan Furniture Exporters Association (APFEA) has raised alarm bells over the escalating raids conducted by customs authorities in Karachi’s furniture markets. This surge in raids, especially the recent one in Nursery Furniture Market, has negatively impacted the esteem of legitimate business owners, compelling them to confront undue distress at the hands of these authorities.
According to a news release by Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), during a visit to the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), the association members voiced their concerns. They stressed that the customs authorities, rather than launching large-scale raids that incite widespread panic, should develop a more strategic and less intimidating approach to address issues, ensuring the protection of the shopkeepers’ dignity. The association has formally sought KCCI’s intervention to mitigate such aggressive tactics by the customs authorities.
The delegation further revealed that during these raids, the myriad of laborers mobilized by the customs authorities often exploit the chaotic environment, pilfering valuables and cash from the shops, thus amplifying the shopkeepers’ losses.
Rana Waheed, the Chairman of APFEA, emphasized the pressing need for the KCCI to address the matter with customs authorities promptly, to ensure the welfare of these shopkeepers, who, in the midst of growing economic challenges, strive to maintain their businesses. Waheed commended the KCCI for its continuous efforts, especially highlighting Chairman BMG Zubair Motiwala’s instrumental role in categorizing the furniture industry outside the Tier-I retailers’ bracket for sales tax collection.
Waheed also shed light on the furniture industry’s resilience and potential. He pointed out that despite prevailing economic hurdles, furniture exports have seen a consistent uptick since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. He envisions the furniture industry bolstering exports up to US$ 1 billion, provided they are facilitated with an amenable business climate and reduced operational costs, ensuring they stand competitive on global platforms.
In response, President KCCI, Iftikhar Ahmed Sheikh, pledged unwavering support to the furniture business community, specifically addressing the raid concerns. “I will promptly connect with the Directorate of Intelligence and Investigation (DIT) to deliberate and harmoniously settle this matter”, he assured, simultaneously urging APFEA to share details of some instances where undue raids were executed and to nominate representatives for an impending meeting with DIT officials.
Sheikh imparted advice to the business owners to always possess the necessary documentation – GDs for imported goods and Sales Tax invoices for local products – to substantiate their legitimacy during potential raids. He also reminded the business community that KCCI stands ready to assist any business entity grappling with departmental issues, reiterating KCCI’s mission to serve the business community diligently.
Furthermore, he encouraged APFEA members to be active participants in KCCI’s gatherings and to join various subcommittees committed to resolving taxing, law and order, utilities, and other prevalent issues.
The meeting was also graced by Senior Vice President Altaf A. Ghaffar, Vice President Tanveer Ahmed Barry, Former Vice President Younus Soomro, members of the KCCI Managing Committee, and the APFEA delegation.
The post APFEA Urges KCCI’s Intervention over Escalating Customs Raids in Karachi’s Furniture Markets appeared first on Pakistan Business News.