Islamabad, May 5, 2025 – The Ministry of Commerce (MoC) has officially banned the import of Indian goods into Pakistan if they are being routed through third countries.
This move was made to strengthen national security and protect the country’s public interest.
In a notification issued as Statutory Regulatory Order (SRO) 750(I)/2025 dated May 4, 2025, the MoC stated that this ban covers all Indian products, whether they are brought directly or through any other country. The decision means that no goods made in India can enter or pass through Pakistan even if they come through a third country by sea, air, or land.
The MoC clarified that the restrictions apply not just to imports, but also to the export and transit of goods that are either going to India or coming from India through third-party countries using Pakistan as a route.
However, some exceptions have been made. The MoC announced that shipments which already have a Bill of Lading (B/L) or Letter of Credit (L/C) issued before this ban came into effect will be allowed. This means goods that were already in the process of being transported before May 4, 2025, will not be affected by the new order.
This decision was made under the authority of sub-section (1) of Section 3 of the Imports & Exports (Control) Act, 1950 (XXXIX of 1950), giving the Federal Government the power to enforce such trade bans when needed.
In summary, the MoC has put a full stop to the trade of Indian goods through third countries. This is a significant shift in Pakistan’s trade policy regarding India, and businesses involved in international shipping and import-export must now take extra care to ensure they comply with this updated regulation. The ban emphasizes Pakistan’s firm stance on limiting trade with India due to ongoing concerns.