International Customs Day 2026: Message from Yahya Muhammad, President (2025-2026) Karachi Customs Agents Association

I extend my warm greetings to the officers and officials of Pakistan Customs on the occasion of International Customs Day.

The World Customs Organization is celebrating its 74th Anniversary this year, and it is a matter of pride that Pakistan Customs continues to play a key role in the development of this progressive country through efficient, targeted controls and the facilitation of lawful trade.

The World Customs Organization (WCO) has announced that 2026 will be devoted to the united efforts of the global Customs community, encouraging Customs administrations to assume a leadership role by embracing innovative technologies and strengthening collaboration with stakeholders to prepare for the future. The chosen theme, “Customs Protecting Society through Vigilance and Commitment,” aptly reflects the dedication and responsibility of Customs administrations in safeguarding society while supporting legitimate trade. Pakistan Customs’ continued commitment to modernization, vigilance, and cooperation with the trade community is commendable and fully aligned with the WCO’s vision for a secure and sustainable global trading system.

Pakistan Customs is among the very few organizations in the country that pioneered the design and automation of clearance and audit systems. That also helped paved way for the Pakistan Single Window, as well as automation on other Government Agencies. Over the years, Pakistan Customs has pursued a broad-based reform strategy through a careful reassessment of its role and objectives, while aligning its operational ethos with prevailing international standards. The two fundamental pillars of this reform strategy are the simplification of business processes and the automation of cargo clearance procedures at all national ports. In an era where technological innovation is rapidly transforming the global business landscape, Pakistan Customs is also adopting modern business models to boost economic growth and enhance overall efficiency.

It is a well-known fact that increasing trade volumes cannot be effectively managed without state-of-the-art clearance systems, and the department’s efforts in this regard are highly commendable. Pakistan Customs has come a long way over the years, undergoing significant and far-reaching transformations that have reshaped it into a proactive, forward-looking organization serving the country including the use of Artificial Intelligence.

It is an immense pleasure and a blessing from Almighty Allah to have been granted the opportunity to represent the Karachi Customs Agents Association (KCAA), one of the largest and most proactive associations in Pakistan. Established in 1965, the Association represents over 3,000 members who play a vital role in the collection of revenue and the achievement of budgetary targets set by the Federal Government for the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) from time to time.

On behalf of the Managing Committee of the Karachi Customs Agents Association, I extend our sincere gratitude and best wishes to Pakistan Customs and the World Customs Organization on the occasion of World Customs Day, and reaffirm our commitment to continued cooperation in support of national economic growth and trade facilitation.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026