Export Facilitation Scheme utilisation period extended to 18 months

ISLAMABAD: The government has extended the utilisation period from nine months to 18 months to allow exporters more time to use imported zero-duty, tax-free inputs under the Export Facilitation Scheme (EFS), thereby easing cost pressures and supporting export growth.

The decision followed recommendations of a technical committee headed by Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani. The committee, which included representatives from the private sector, recommended the proposed policy changes unanimously.

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has issued customs notification SRO528 of 2026 to amend the Customs Rules 2001, replacing the earlier nine-month utilisation limit with 18 months, effective from March 7, 2025.

Mr Azhar said on his X handle that under the revised framework, exporters can now import inputs duty-free and utilise them within the extended period.

Move meant to support exporters facing financial and production constraints

Move meant to support exporters facing financial and production constraints

The longer timeframe is expected to reduce financial strain on exporters, particularly small and medium enterprises, which often face working capital constraints and production cycle delays, he added.

The........

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