NEW DELHI, May 3 – In a bold move following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 innocent lives, the Indian government has announced a complete ban on all imports from Pakistan, both direct and indirect, reported by GK News. The decision, which takes effect immediately, is driven by national security concerns and public interest, as per a notification issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT).
The terror attack, which occurred on April 22, 2025, targeted tourists in the scenic region of Jammu and Kashmir and has reignited tensions between the two neighboring countries. In response, India not only shut down the Attari land transit point but also expelled Pakistani military attachés and suspended the long-standing Indus Water Treaty of 1960.
The new order has been added to the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023, clearly stating that the import or transit of all goods from Pakistan, regardless of their trade status, will be prohibited until further notice. Any exceptions will require special government approval.
Though trade between India and Pakistan had already declined since the 2019 Pulwama terror attack, this latest step freezes even the minimal remaining economic ties. Between April 2024 and January 2025, India exported goods worth USD 447.65 million to Pakistan, while imports were a mere USD 0.42 million, including small quantities of fruits, oilseeds, and medicinal plants.
India’s main exports to Pakistan included pharmaceutical products, organic chemicals, sugar, vegetables, spices, petroleum, and auto components. The ban is expected to impact these sectors slightly, but officials stress the move is essential to uphold national security.
Pakistan has retaliated by suspending all trade with India, including transit of goods from third countries through its territory.
India had already withdrawn the “Most Favoured Nation” (MFN) status from Pakistan in 2019, after which it imposed a steep 200% import duty on goods from the neighbor. Pakistan, despite promising MFN status to India back in 2012, never followed through.
The two countries, often at odds due to the Kashmir conflict and ongoing border tensions, now face another period of deepened hostility, with diplomatic and trade relations hanging by a thread.
This firm trade ban reflects India’s resolve to respond strongly to cross-border terrorism and protect its people.
