Pahalgam Fallout: India Bans Pakistani-Origin Goods in Crackdown on Indirect Imports

In a decisive move following last month’s terror attack in Pahalgam, the Indian government has imposed a total ban on the import and transit of goods from Pakistan — including those routed through third countries. The order, issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry on May 2, is aimed at closing any remaining loopholes that allowed Pakistani goods to enter the Indian market indirectly.

“Whether direct or indirect, all imports or transit of goods from Pakistan are now prohibited until further notice,” said the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), adding that any exceptions will need prior approval from the government. The ban is being enforced in the interest of national security and public policy.

Last month, India had already shut down direct trade by closing the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Attari, a key route for goods moving between the two countries. That decision put a stop to trade worth nearly Rs 3,900 crore annually. However, through other countries, few Pakistani goods were still finding their way into Indian markets.

Amid rising tensions and security concerns, with this latest ban, India has effectively sealed all commercial access for Pakistani goods, sending a strong message.