Tech Desk 
Aug 26, 2025
Pakistan is set to introduce an artificial intelligence (AI)-powered risk management system in its customs clearance process as part of broader government reforms aimed at boosting revenue and streamlining trade.
This announcement was made at a high-powered review meeting on making the customs inspection and assessment system faceless, convened by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday.
“The objective of improving and modernising the customs system is to increase national revenue by facilitating trade for businesses,” the prime minister said, according to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO).
The Prime Minister focused on reducing the administrative delays in customs inspection and assessment and instructed the authorities to use impartial officers to hear review appeals by businesses.
Additionally, PM urged authorities to develop a comprehensive plan to manage cargo growth at ports and deliver cargo promptly.
The PMO stated that they have instructed customs authorities to ensure that customs reform implementation is effectively achieved with an early implementation strategy and focus on transparency, tax collection, and ease of business.
Officials informed the PM that an AI-based risk management system will be introduced shortly to reduce the customs clearance period. AI technology is already being introduced with customs scanners to expedite the customs clearance process.
The meeting also noted that anti-smuggling operations have curbed illegal trade and increased the volume of goods processed through formal channels.
