PAKISTAN: First Phase of Trade Single Window Officially Launched

Pakistan launched the initial phase of the Pakistan Single Window (PSW) on 30 June 2022, to facilitate trade and lower the cost of doing business. The PSW, which started its trial roll-out in July last year, offers various services such as online document processing, electronic customs registration, digital payments and the issuance of import permits, phyto-sanitary certificates, release orders and other trade-related documents, integrating with various governmental agencies.

Twenty-nine commercial banks have been integrated into the platform, allowing easier exchange of information related to cross-border trade. The bank integration, done in tandem with the State Bank of Pakistan, has replaced electronic Forms E & I, which were among the previous requirements for every transaction.

The PSW has been implemented in line with Pakistan’s commitment to the World Trade Organization’s Trade Facilitation Agreement. In the recently enacted Finance Act 2022, stiff penalties were introduced for PSW users that tamper with or submit incorrect data, including fines up to PKR1 million (US$4,625) and jail terms of up to four years.