By Saleem Mubarak
FAISALABAD– Exporters have hailed the introduction of an application by the Faisalabad Customs Collectorate, saying it would help expedite the processing of applications requests under the Export Facilitation Scheme (EFS).
Shehzad Ahmed, an exporter, told WealthPK that modern tools are needed to expedite production processes. He said Pakistan still lagged behind in fully tapping into the potential of information technology.
He said that the Faisalabad Dry Port going smart is a positive development for exporters, as this approach will help reduce manual work. “The introduction of the new application will allow exporters or their agents to check the latest status of their applications online. “However, time will tell whether it is updated regularly or merely a publicity stunt,” he added.
Export Facilitation Scheme Made Easier at Faisalabad Dry Port
Ahmed mentioned that the business community has been informed that beneficiaries of the EFS have to submit their applications online in a standardised format, along with a working telephone number or email address. After submitting this information, he said the applicant will be informed of any discrepancies in the application through these contacts.
“Exporters often face long delays, unclear processes, and excessive paperwork at dry ports. Such troubles could be minimised with the introduction of new technologies that enable exporters to provide the necessary documents online, monitor shipments in real-time, get approvals without visiting the ports and incurring travelling expenses.”
“We highly welcome such initiatives that would help exporters to save money and time in the long run and enhance efficiency,” he remarked.
Faisalabad Dry Port App Streamlines Export Documentation
Ahmed Malik, an IT expert at a local textile mill, told WealthPK that currently, the majority of export documentation is manual, as exporters have to submit multiple copies of forms, wait in long queues, and follow up on approvals.
He said that a single tool could handle the entire process, and hopefully, the Faisalabad Dry Port application will centralise all procedures, enabling exporters to submit documents online, receive automatic verification, and track shipments in real-time.
According to him, the app can also point out mistakes before submission, cutting out the problems caused by incomplete paperwork and comments.
Moreover, he noted that the system will help overcome bureaucratic hurdles and make the whole process transparent, swift, and convenient.
He said such tools will not only favour exporters but also help customs staff perform their tasks more efficiently. With documents pre-verified online, he said that officers can focus on other important responsibilities rather than paperwork.
“We also expect better data management, which will help in future planning and policymaking. Overall, the app could modernise the port and make it more efficient and accountable,” he said.
Faisalabad Dry Port Training Exporters for Digital Shift
Speaking to WealthPK, Mian Muhammad Latif, founder chairman of the Faisalabad Dry Port Trust, said the new customs application would make exports faster and easier, control procedural delays, and save the valuable financial resources of exporters.
He said technological advancements are reshaping businesses the world over, and Pakistan must harness them to save time and money.
He said that the Faisalabad Collectorate of Customs had started inviting exporters and their staff members for training so they can fully utilise the application. “Prior to the launch of this application, exporters had to dispatch their documents to Karachi, which was a time-consuming procedure. Now, after the launch of the application, these documents are transferred via the internet,” Mian Latif explained.
“Exporters are now able to track their shipments, and get updates in real time. This step saves time, cuts paperwork, and reduces delays.”
