MoU Signing Ceremony
ISLAMABAD: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and the Technology for People Initiative (TPI) at Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Monday at the FBR headquarters. The signing ceremony was attended by Chairman FBR, Rashid Mahmood Langrial, along with senior officials from both FBR and LUMS. Muhammad Junaid Jalil Khan, Member Customs (Operations), represented FBR, while Dr. Muhammad Fareed Zaffar, Director of TPI-LUMS, signed on behalf of LUMS.
Enhancing Customs Risk Management with Machine Learning
This partnership aims to advance the use of machine learning and data analytics to strengthen the Customs Risk Management System, improving cross-border trade facilitation. By leveraging these technologies, the collaboration seeks to reduce human involvement while enhancing regulatory compliance, particularly in preventing mis-invoicing and ensuring accurate revenue collection.
Developing the National Targeting Centre (NTC)
The agreement also extends to the development of a National Targeting Centre (NTC), designed to identify and target individuals, entities, and conveyances involved in the movement of illicit goods. The NTC will be an ICT-based platform, widely used globally by Customs and other agencies for information sharing and profiling.
Importance of Academia-Public Sector Collaboration
Chairman FBR highlighted the importance of public sector and academia collaboration, emphasizing the value of knowledge transfer and locally developed solutions. TPI aims to bridge the gap between academic research and public sector needs, promoting data-driven policymaking and enhancing transparency and accountability.
Leveraging TPI-LUMS Expertise for Customized Solutions
Through this partnership, Pakistan Customs will benefit from TPI-LUMS’ extensive experience in providing customized technological solutions, including the use of machine learning and data analytics, all on a pro-bono basis.
