Customs Revises Ginger and Garlic Import Values

The Directorate General of Customs Valuation, Karachi, has re-determined the customs values applicable to the import of fresh ginger and garlic originating from China, Indonesia, Vietnam, Myanmar, and Thailand. The revision has been undertaken to ensure more accurate assessment of customs duties and associated taxes in light of prevailing international price movements.

The process was initiated following a formal representation submitted on January 6, 2026, by the All Pakistan Fresh Ginger and Garlic Importers and Wholesalers Association. In its correspondence, the Association requested downward revision of the existing customs values, citing seasonal production cycles and international price fluctuations, particularly the impact of bumper crops in major exporting countries.

Consequently, the Directorate issued Valuation Ruling No. 2044 of 2026, superseding earlier benchmark values. The ruling provides that where consignments are imported via land routes, a 10% reduction in the notified customs values will be admissible to account for differential freight costs.

Previously, customs values for these commodities had been fixed under Section 25A of the Customs Act, 1969 through Valuation Ruling No. 1907/2024. In response to the importers’ request, fresh proceedings were initiated under Section 25A for re-determination. Formal notices were circulated to relevant stakeholders, and consultative meetings were convened to examine objections and supporting evidence concerning valuation levels.

During the consultative process, representatives of the importers’ body contended that the existing notified values were disproportionately high relative to prevailing international market prices. They specifically highlighted surplus production in China and Thailand, which allegedly depressed global rates due to excess supply.

To ensure a legally sustainable and data-driven outcome, the Directorate retrieved and scrutinised 90 days of import clearance data. A comprehensive market inquiry was also conducted in accordance with Sub-Section (7) of Section 25 of the Customs Act, 1969, read with Office Order No. 171/2014 dated March 19, 2014. Wholesale and retail market surveys were undertaken to assess actual transaction values and prevailing domestic price points.

Following evaluation of import documentation, comparative data analysis, stakeholder submissions, and international pricing benchmarks, the Directorate finalised revised customs values under Sub-Section (7) of Section 25 of the Customs Act, 1969. The authorities have stated that the newly determined values are aligned with international market conditions and comply with statutory valuation principles.

Importers dealing in fresh ginger and garlic from the specified jurisdictions should review the revised ruling carefully to assess its implications for duty incidence, landed cost calculations, and potential refund or appeal considerations under the Customs Act framework.