FBR plans to replace WeBOC with new digital system

ISLAMABAD: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) is set to revolutionize its customs operations by replacing the existing Web-Based One Customs (WeBOC) with a new digital system.

In a strategic move, the tax department has established 16 working groups to revamp customs processes, including potential changes in laws and procedures, ultimately leading to the replacement of WeBOC.

These working groups, as notified by the FBR, encompass various aspects such as Appraisement, Preventive (including Anti-smuggling, Confiscation, and auction-related operations), Exports and Quota Management, Transit, Criminal Proceedings, Case management functions, Post Clearance Audit, Valuation, and more.

As outlined in the Terms of Reference (TORs) provided by the FBR, the transformation initiative involves the engagement of international consultants. These consultants are tasked with conducting a comprehensive business process analysis and developing artifacts for the new digital system.

The consultancy also extends to changes in laws and procedures, incorporating a robust change management strategy. To oversee this critical consultancy, the FBR has formed a Project Implementation Committee (PIC) and designated Working Groups for various work streams within Pakistan Customs.

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The primary goal of these Working Groups is to assess the business requirement specification document crafted by the consultants and evaluate their recommendations for their specific work stream. The TORs outline specific responsibilities, including the critical evaluation of current business operations, providing input on ‘To-be’ process flows, and validating the consultancy’s output in their respective work streams.

In addition to the Working Groups, the appointment of focal persons for each work stream aims to ensure close coordination between the consulting firm and Customs. These focal persons will provide subject matter expertise, facilitate the capture of the current state, guide the assessment phase, validate consultancy outputs, and act as liaison officers for effective coordination between Customs and the consulting firm.

Their responsibilities also include organizing consultation/validation sessions, supporting policy and procedural changes, coordinating change management plans, and assisting the PIC in resolving issues related to duplication or overlapping of work streams. The performance of these focal persons, attached to PSW Company, will be managed by the National Coordinator (NC).”