The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has issued a significant notification banning the import of all goods originating in or exported from Pakistan to India. The directive, effective immediately from May 2, 2025, prohibits both direct and indirect imports, including those routed through other trade channels.
Details of the Notification
As per Notification No. 06/2025-26, dated May 2, 2025, a new paragraph, Para 2.20A, has been added to the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023. The paragraph states:
“Direct or indirect import or transit of all goods originating in or exported from Pakistan, whether or not freely importable or otherwise permitted, shall be prohibited with immediate effect, until further orders. This restriction is imposed in the interest of national security and public policy.”
The complete notification is available on the DGFT website at dgft.gov.in.
Reasons Behind the Ban
The prohibition has been enacted in the interest of national security and public policy, reflecting India’s firm stance on regulating trade with Pakistan. The move is seen as a strategic step to safeguard economic and security interests, given the complex bilateral relations between the two nations.
Impact of the Ban
This comprehensive ban will halt all trade imports from Pakistan, affecting goods previously permitted under specific categories. The prohibition extends to goods transiting through third countries, ensuring no indirect imports bypass the restriction. This decision is likely to reshape trade dynamics and encourage India to diversify its import sources.
Looking Ahead
The import ban will remain in place until further orders from the DGFT, with the government closely monitoring its implications. This development underscores India’s focus on self-reliance and strategic trade policies under initiatives like ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’.