KARACHI: Several trade associations have complained to the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) about the rising theft of imported goods during examination and clearance from all the ports.

Representatives of these associations, including Karachi Electronic Dealers Association and Pakistan Spare Parts Importers and Dealers Association, have also asked the chamber to take up the matter to the Ministry of Ports and Shipping.

Acting President KCCI Muffasar Atta Malik urged the ports ministry and chairmen of all ports of the city to take notice of the rise in theft of imported goods and order Port Security Force to take stringent steps to secure consignments.

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In a statement, he said the KCCI has received many complaints from importers who said the pilferage of imported goods has worsened currently as around 10 to 12 cartons are being stolen from each container.

Besides intensifying security arrangements of imported consignments, Malik urged the authorities concerned to allow a representative of business community into ports’ premises during clearance and examination of goods to ensure that no theft occurs.

Published in Dawn, September 11th, 2014