The customs meat and bone meal valuation in Pakistan has been updated following the issuance of Valuation Ruling Number 2031 of 2025 on Thursday. This ruling revises the earlier Customs values set under Valuation Ruling No. 192412024 dated December 3, 2024, in accordance with Section 25A of the Customs Act, 1969. Stakeholders had raised concerns that the previous valuations, determined over a year ago, no longer reflect the current international market prices, prompting authorities to initiate a re-evaluation.
The Directorate General of Customs Valuation in Karachi conducted a thorough review to ensure that the customs meat and bone meal valuation accurately represents prevailing trade prices. Stakeholders were issued hearing notices and invited to present their viewpoints, emphasizing that the old valuation did not match the actual transaction values being observed in recent imports. They also argued that declared values provided by importers were fair and consistent with market trends.
A detailed assessment of import data for the past 90 days was conducted, along with a review of documentation submitted by importers. This exercise allowed the authorities to develop a supplier-wise database, capturing transaction values and specifications of imported goods. By incorporating real-time data, the customs meat and bone meal valuation now reflects a more precise and market-aligned pricing framework. This database was shared with stakeholders to ensure transparency and provide them an opportunity to offer comments or objections before final values were confirmed.
To further validate pricing, international trade bulletins were scrutinized. This step ensured that the customs meat and bone meal valuation is consistent with global pricing trends, safeguarding fair trade practices and compliance with the Customs Act, 1969. The goal was to establish equitable customs values that are legally defensible while reflecting actual market conditions.
The valuation process employed multiple methods as outlined under Section 25 of the Customs Act, 1969. The transaction value method under sub-section (1) was initially considered; however, it was deemed inapplicable due to significant inconsistencies in declared values across different importers. Additionally, supporting documentation was often incomplete or inconsistent, making this method unreliable.
Subsequently, methods based on identical and similar goods, under sub-sections (5) and (6) of Section 25, were applied. These approaches allowed authorities to compare imported goods with equivalent items in both domestic and international markets. By analyzing similarities and differences in product quality, specifications, and origin, a more accurate customs meat and bone meal valuation was established. This multi-step methodology ensures that all valuations are aligned with legal provisions while reflecting current market realities.
The updated ruling also reflects Pakistan’s commitment to promoting transparency and fairness in customs procedures. By providing stakeholders with access to the underlying data and inviting feedback, the authorities have minimized potential disputes and ensured that importers understand the basis of the new customs meat and bone meal valuation. This proactive approach helps maintain trust in the regulatory system and prevents future discrepancies in import pricing.
Industry experts have welcomed the ruling, noting that timely revisions to customs values are essential for stabilizing trade operations. Accurate valuations help importers plan procurement and pricing strategies effectively while ensuring compliance with national laws. Furthermore, aligning customs meat and bone meal valuation with international market trends reduces the risk of over- or under-invoicing, which can have legal and financial implications.
Moving forward, stakeholders are encouraged to monitor any further updates from the Directorate General of Customs Valuation, as adjustments may continue depending on fluctuations in global market prices. The latest ruling sets a precedent for periodic re-evaluation of customs values, emphasizing the importance of maintaining market-relevant pricing and transparency.
The recent customs meat and bone meal valuation updates reflect a comprehensive, data-driven approach to determining fair and equitable import values. By considering transaction data, international market trends, and stakeholder input, Pakistani authorities have established a valuation framework that is both transparent and legally compliant. Importers and industry participants are advised to review the ruling carefully and ensure their future imports adhere to the updated values to avoid any legal complications.
