Pakistan Customs has rejected reports of delays in the clearance of imported petroleum products, stating that there are no pending fuel consignments with filed Goods Declarations (GDs) awaiting clearance.
Responding to media reports, Member Customs Operations clarified that claims suggesting importers were required to declare the final value of petroleum cargo at the time of filing GDs were based on a misunderstanding.
The official explained that the final value of imported petroleum shipments is determined at a later stage and has never been a condition for filing a GD or obtaining clearance. Customs has advised Pakistan State Oil (PSO) to submit GDs promptly to prevent any unnecessary delays in the clearance process.
The department also confirmed that operations at Port Qasim are continuing normally. The vessel MT Bolan, which arrived at the FOTCO terminal on July 15, has already discharged part of its cargo and is expected to complete unloading by July 17.
Other PSO vessels, including MT Nave Cassiopeia and MT Hafnia Shannon, are scheduled to arrive on July 17, while MT Portofino is expected on July 23.
According to Customs, petroleum clearances and fuel dispatches from Port Qasim are being processed regularly, with operational matters being addressed on a priority basis.
The department also highlighted that Flow Petroleum recently required a customs no-objection certificate (NOC) for transporting fuel to upcountry locations through PAPCO, which has already been issued.
Customs further stated that three consignments require penalty waivers under the Customs Act and processing through the updated Pakistan Single Window system introduced after the Finance Act 2026.
The official added that issues related to bond-to-bond cargo transfers occurred because some oil marketing companies moved cargo without obtaining prior approval required under the law. However, clearance facilitation efforts are continuing in coordination with the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) and industry stakeholders.
The matter was also reviewed during the National Crisis Management Cell (NCMC) meeting held on July 16, where authorities found no pending customs clearances for imported petroleum products.
Customs reiterated that fuel supply operations remain stable and there is no immediate risk of a shortage due to import clearance issues.
