ISLAMABAD – Pakistan has formally issued the “Transit of Goods through Territory of Pakistan Order 2026,” a strategic move aimed at streamlining the movement of commercial cargo between third countries and Iran via Pakistani soil.
The notification, designated as S.R.O. 691(I)/2026, was issued by the ministry of commerce in pursuance of a 2008 bilateral agreement between Islamabad and Tehran regarding the international transport of passengers and goods by road.
Strengthening Regional Connectivity
The order, which takes effect immediately, leverages powers granted under the Imports and Exports (Control) Act, 1950. It establishes a clear legal framework for “Transit”—defined as the movement of goods across Pakistan where the journey begins and ends beyond the country’s national borders.
By formalizing these “Transit Transport Corridors,” Pakistan seeks to position itself as a central hub for regional logistics, specifically facilitating trade destined for the Iranian market.
Designated Trade Routes
The order specifies six primary routes connecting Pakistan’s major maritime gateways to the Iranian border. These designated corridors are designed to optimize the flow of cargo from the deep-sea ports of Gwadar, Karachi, and Port Qasim.
The designated routes include:
• Gwadar to Gabd
• Karachi/Port Qasim to Gabd (via Lyari, Ormara, and Pasni)
• Karachi/Port Qasim to Taftan (via Khuzdar and Dalbandin)
• Gwadar to Taftan (via the Turbat-Panjgur-Quetta axis)
Customs and Security Framework
To safeguard national revenue and ensure regulatory compliance, the new order introduces strict definitions for Customs Security. Traders or authorized brokers must submit encashable financial guarantees equivalent to the import levies of Pakistan on all transit goods.
The order also permits “Cross Stuffing”—the transfer of goods between containers or different modes of transportation—provided it complies with existing Customs laws.
“The transportation of cargo under this notification shall be regulated in accordance with the provisions of the Customs Act, 1969,” the document stated, adding that the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) would oversee the specific procedures.
Industry analysts suggest that the activation of these corridors could significantly reduce transit times for regional shippers and enhance the economic viability of the Gwadar Port. The move comes as Pakistan continues to seek diversified revenue streams through transit fees and logistics services, strengthening its economic ties with its western neighbor.
