Business Recorder
ISLAMABAD: All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA) has called for a reduction in scanning charges on import containers used by export-oriented industries, stressing that the move is critical to sustaining Pakistan’s fragile export momentum amid rising production costs and persistent supply-side challenges. In a letter to the Project Director (AEES), Collectorate of Customs Appraisement (West), Customs House Karachi, APTMA Secretary General Raza Baqir referred to Pakistan Customs’ April 4, 2026 notification reducing scanning charges on export containers. The association welcomed the decision, terming it a timely intervention, particularly as port congestion—largely beyond exporters’ control—continues to disrupt supply chains. However, APTMA emphasized that similar relief must be extended to import consignments of export-oriented units, as these primarily consist of raw materials temporarily brought in for manufacturing export goods. “Reducing scanning charges on such imports will directly lower input costs and ease financial pressures on exporters,” the association noted. READ MORE: Port & customs-related issues: APTMA seeks setting up of task force The demand comes at a time when Pakistan’s textile sector is grappling with multiple headwinds. Industry players point to high energy tariffs, expensive financing, currency volatility, and delays in refunds as key factors eroding competitiveness. In addition, recent disruptions in global supply chains and subdued demand in major export markets have further tightened margins. Stakeholders argue that lowering port-related charges can provide immediate, tangible relief. With the cost of doing business rising across the board, even incremental reductions in logistics and compliance expenses could help exporters remain competitive against regional players such as Bangladesh, Vietnam, and India. Moreover, exporters have raised concerns that delays and additional costs at ports not only increase the turnaround time for shipments but also affect Pakistan’s reliability as a supplier in international markets. In this context, APTMA’s proposal is being viewed as part of a broader push for trade facilitation reforms aimed at improving efficiency and reducing transaction costs. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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