India has announced a complete ban on imports from Pakistan following rising tensions after the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam. The government said this bold step has been taken in the interest of national security and public policy and will apply to all goods coming directly or indirectly from Pakistan.
According to a fresh notification issued by the Commerce Ministry, a new clause has been added to the Foreign Trade Policy 2023. It states: “The direct or indirect import or transit of all goods originating in or exported from Pakistan, whether freely importable or not, is prohibited with immediate effect until further orders.” Any exceptions will need prior approval from the government.
The Wagah-Attari border crossing, which served as the main trade route between the two nations, had already been shut down following the Pahalgam attack.
India’s imports from Pakistan mostly included pharmaceutical products, fruits, and oilseeds. However, trade between the two countries has seen a significant decline since the 2019 Pulwama attack, when India imposed a 200% duty on Pakistani goods and revoked Pakistan’s ‘Most Favoured Nation’ trade status. Bilateral trade, which was $2.4 billion in 2017-18, dropped to just $647 million in 2023-24. By 2024-25 (up to January), India’s exports to Pakistan stood at $447.65 million, while imports were a mere $0.42 million—less than 0.0001% of India’s total imports.
The latest tensions flared after terrorists killed at least 26 civilians, including a Nepalese tourist and a local guide, in Jammu and Kashmir’s scenic Baisaran meadow on April 22. Investigations revealed links to Pakistan, further straining relations between the two countries.
In response, India also suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, a key water-sharing agreement signed in 1960. The government indicated it may now block or divert water from the Indus River system, a major lifeline for Pakistan’s population.
Additionally, India canceled all visas issued to Pakistani nationals, asking those residing in the country to leave, including those with medical visas. In retaliation, Pakistan threatened to terminate all bilateral agreements with India, including the historic Simla Agreement. Both nations have also downgraded diplomatic ties.
The border situation remains tense, with Pakistani forces attempting to provoke Indian troops through targeted firing. India has responded strongly to every cross-border violation.
India has long accused Pakistan of sheltering terrorists and aiding cross-border terrorism. Home Minister Amit Shah reaffirmed that no trade talks would take place with Pakistan until terrorism is completely eradicated from Jammu and Kashmir.