FTO Directs FBR to Tighten Airline Cargo Controls, End Manual Manifest Filing
In a significant attempt at curbing fraud and moving towards strong airport security, the Federal Tax Ombudsman has ordered the FBR to ensure strict compliance with the filing of an air manifest in the WeBOC system by all international airlines operating in Pakistan.
The decision comes after serious concerns were raised that the misuse of manual and third-party processes had allowed unauthorized cargo clearances, record manipulation, and pilferage of goods, among other things, resulting in revenue losses and security risks.
Why it was necessary:
FTO says airports have been exposed as a high-risk point of entry where weak controls are being manipulated by organized groups. These loopholes have enabled the clearance of cargo despite the absence of proper documents, which has affected government revenue as well as confidence in the customs regime.
The Ombudsman is quoted, “The involvement of middlemen for cargo information is prone to manipulation, which has to be scrapped immediately.”
Important Points/Merits/Directives
To remove these disparities, FTO has directed FBR to implement these following steps immediately:
• Air carriers’ direct submission of the cargo manifests to WeBOC to ensure that the information comes directly from the source
• Independent verification of manifests and off-load data, rather than reliance on third parties
• Automatic red-flag notices in WeBOC for clearance of any cargo without a legitimate Goods declaration notice.
• Integration of the entire system for cargo handlers, airlines, and customs to prevent any illegal activities
These measures seek to achieve a transparent, totally digital, and traceable cargo clearance system.
What This Means in 2025
This directive is considered a major step toward trade reform with increasing volumes in 2025 and as customs digitization is becoming a priority. It will help in:
✔ Reduce customs fraud and revenue leakage
✔ Enhance cargo security at airports
✔ Give a fair deal to the genuine importers and exporters
✔ Enhance confidence in the customs and trade system of Pakistan
Closing Thoughts
FTO’s direction is amply clear: the days of manual gaps and weak controls are over. In this backdrop, the direct manifest filing by airlines along with a more penetrative system checks are likely to bring in greater discipline, transparency, and accountability in their cargo operations. If implemented effectively, this reform can significantly reduce corruption risks and modernize Pakistan’s cargo-clearance framework in line with international best practices.