Pakistan Customs Export Collectorate has directed that salt export consignments must be shipped with proper and standardized packaging to ensure smooth and uninterrupted exports.
The decision was taken during a meeting between Collector Customs Exports Rizwan Mehmood and representatives of the Salt Manufacturers Association, led by founding chairman Ismail Sattar, along with Chairperson Saima Akhtar and other officials.
During the meeting, exporters and customs authorities agreed on corrective measures to address longstanding issues that were affecting the reputation of Pakistan’s salt industry in international markets.
Exporters informed customs officials that overseas buyers had raised concerns after receiving shipments with damaged packaging. According to the association, the issue largely stemmed from improper resealing of containers at ports after customs examinations, which caused packaging to deteriorate during transit.
In response, Customs decided to stop the practice of declaring salt exports under general trade codes, which had been triggering unnecessary and repeated inspections at ports.
Deputy Collector Usman Hameed Butt and Assistant Collector Asma Sikandar said incorrect classification under Harmonized System (HS) codes was a major reason behind repeated examinations and export delays.
They clarified that many exporters were using generic HS codes instead of specific classifications. Customs emphasized that HS Code 2501.00.10 applies to table salt, 2501.00.20 to rock salt, while 2501.00.90 should only be used for salt categories that do not fall under the first two classifications.
Unless we have pre shipment inspection done its not long before India takes our share. Our exporters lack sense and commitment, they just want to ship what may come.
So they don’t get sample approved first in all aspects, like we do in textiles. Once sample is approved, we proceed whole container
Packaging is what attracts a buyer in the first instant. We unfortunately, save in packaging to increase profit, not knowing that we are losing markets.
In international trade, issues like cargo rejection due to packaging or any other aspect can significantly impact both cost and reputation. This highlights the importance of proper quality and packaging controls before shipment.
As an independent third-party inspection provider, SGS Pakistan Mineral Services supports exporters through comprehensive pre-shipment inspection services. These include verification of cargo quality, packaging integrity, labeling, and loading supervision to ensure compliance with buyer requirements and international standards.
Engaging such controls at origin can help minimize risks of rejection at destination and strengthen buyer confidence in Pakistani exports.
As Business Development Manager, I would be happy to support in this regard—members of the association are welcome to reach out to me directly for facilitation.