ISLAMABAD: Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has clarified that Chinese investors have no exemption from customs duty under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), it is learnt here.
Sources told Customs Today that there is no exceptional facilities are given to Chinese investors (those who import goods under CPEC in Pakistan); however, in the free zone under free duties import, both the local and Chinese investors are equally facilitated by the board.
Sources further added that the board always denied those media reports which stated that Chinese investors have been given special facilities under CPEC, however, importers of both the countries are treated equally under CPEC.
Sources also added that FBR has received suggestion of Transshipment (TP) through Railways, however, the board will first consult with Railway department if Railways showed its interest in transshipment of goods, the board would be able to work on it with proper law and regulations.
It is important to mention here that exemptions from levy of customs duty at import stage were specifically offered to Chinese contractors for few projects of roads, mass transit and Gwadar port. These exemptions include exemption of customs duties on the import of plant machinery and equipment, if not manufactured locally.