FBR tightens Pakistan-Iran cargo transit rules amid Gulf security concerns

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has overhauled the regulatory framework governing cargo movement between Pakistan and Iran, introducing tighter transit controls and revised operating procedures in response to the prevailing war-like situation in the Gulf region.

The measures, notified through Customs General Order (CGO) No. 05 of 2026, took effect immediately and apply to all imports and exports transported through the Pakistan-Iran land border.

Under the revised framework, the Directorate General of Transit Trade in Karachi has been designated as the primary authority responsible for overseeing and facilitating cargo movements. It has also been directed to conduct daily reconciliation of all transit cargo to detect any pilferage, with violations to be dealt with under the Customs Act, 1969.

The order also directs the Directorate General of Reforms and Automation to make the necessary changes to customs system modules to ensure seamless implementation of the new procedures.

For cargo moving under the international TIR transit system, transport operations will continue to be governed by Chapter XXIX of the Customs Rules, 2001.

Meanwhile, consignments transported under the general transit regime will remain subject to Chapter XLIII of the Customs Rules, with one key change: designated land routes for Iran-bound cargo will now be determined by the Ministry of Commerce instead of those specified under Rule 1054.

The FBR has also authorised cross stuffing of cargo destined for Iran at Pakistan's ports and off dock terminals in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Customs Rules.

The tax authority said the revised framework has been introduced to regulate cargo movements across the Pakistan-Iran border in light of the security situation in the Gulf region while ensuring closer monitoring and smoother processing of transit trade.