The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has signed an agreement with Pakistan Single Window (PSW) designating it the official technology partner for the operations, maintenance, enhancement, and transformation of the Web-Based One Customs system.
Aimed at digitalizing customs clearance processes, the strategic partnership represents a critical milestone in the nation’s journey toward modernizing customs operations and enhancing trade efficiency across Pakistan’s borders.
Through its single window platform, PSW is rapidly transforming the country’s cross-border trade ecosystem by successfully digitalizing cross-border trade related processes and information requirements of 15 government agencies, seamlessly integrating them with its system.
The PSW has been operating and maintaining the Web-Based One Customs system since 2022 and has supported Pakistan Customs in implementing some significant reforms, including the faceless customs assessment system recently launched in Karachi. Its formal onboarding as the FBR’s technology partner aims to align the Web-Based One Customs system with international best practices. Further, the single window architecture is part of the FBR’s efforts to enhance efficiency and transparency in customs operations and revenue collection.
Under the agreement, PSW will support the FBR in upgrading the Web-Based One Customs system’s technical and functional architecture to transform it into a next-generation Customs Clearance System capable of utilizing artificial intelligence and machine learning tools to further reduce human intervention and official discretion.
Key features will include faster processing, enhanced security, and improved compliance mechanisms as well as a more robust risk management system integrated with international databases. These upgrades aim to reduce costs, improve efficiency, and bolster Pakistan’s global competitiveness in cross-border trade and improve transparency.
“This partnership strengthens and reaffirms PSW’s leading role in the digitalization of cross border trade,” said Aftab Haider, PSW chief executive officer. “The upgraded system will not only enhance the ease of doing business but also ensure that Pakistan remains a regional leader in digital trade transformation,” he added.
By bringing together multiple stakeholders on a single platform, PSW’s modernization efforts reinforce Pakistan’s dedication to achieving global standards in trade facilitation. This collaboration between Pakistan Customs and PSW highlights the transformative role of digital solutions in driving economic progress and fostering global trade partnerships.
PSW is an initiative of the Government of Pakistan. It aims to streamline and simplify the trade process by providing a single platform for the submission, processing, and approval of trade-related documents. In addition to the single window platform, other digital products developed and successfully implemented by PSW include the Trade Information Portal of Pakistan, the Port Community System, the Integrated Risk Management System, and the DRAP Clearance Gateway.