International Customs Day 2026: Message from Syed Shakeel Shah, Member Customs-Operations

On 26 January 2026, Pakistan Customs proudly joins the World Customs Organization and the global Customs community in celebrating International Customs Day. This year’s theme, “Customs protecting society through vigilance and commitment,” aptly highlights the evolving and indispensable role of Customs administrations as both guardians of national borders and facilitators of legitimate trade.

Customs operations play a critical role in safeguarding societal well-being by preventing and disrupting illicit activities that threaten national and international security. Our efforts directly contribute to protecting public health, preserving the environment, ensuring supply chain integrity, and supporting sustainable economic growth. In an increasingly interconnected world, the vigilance and commitment of Customs administrations are more vital than ever.

At its core, the mission of Pakistan Customs is to protect our people, our economy, and our nation from cross-border threats. Through intelligence-led enforcement, robust risk management systems, and the adoption of advanced technologies, we continuously enhance our capacity to detect and intercept risks that may harm society. The Federal Board of Revenue’s Transformation Plan stands as a clear demonstration of our commitment to leveraging technology-driven solutions to create a secure, transparent, and efficient trade environment.

Pakistan Customs stand firmly committed to the vision of technology driven organization fully geared up towards challenges of regulating cross border trade with a professionalism and integrity as core values.Beyond revenue collection and trade facilitation, Pakistan Customs is proactively addressing emerging and non-traditional threats, including those related to environmental protection. We have made significant contributions by enforcing controls against the illegal trade in hazardous waste, ozone-depleting substances, and other environmentally sensitive goods. These initiatives reflect our firms resolve to protect public health, safeguard the environment, and advance sustainable development, in close cooperation with our national and international partners.

On this important occasion, I extend my sincere appreciation to our international partners for their continued cooperation and support. Pakistan Customs remains fully committed to strengthening collaboration with the global Customs community to build a safer, more secure, and more prosperous world. I am confident that, with professionalism, innovation, and dedication, Pakistan Customs will continue to successfully meet the challenges arising from the rapidly changing dynamics of global trade.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026