FBR issues framework of cargo transportation to-and-from Iran

KARACHI: Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has issued a regulatory framework governing the transportation of cargo to and from Iran, citing the ongoing war-like situation in the Gulf region as a key factor prompting the order.

According to the Customs General Order (CGO) No. 05 of 2026, the order takes effect immediately and applies to all cargo movements across the Pakistan-Iran land border.

Under the new framework, goods transported under the TIR regime, an international customs transit system, must follow the provisions laid out in Chapter XXIX of the Customs Rules, 2001.

Cargo moving under the general transit regime is to follow Chapter XLIII of the same rules, with one notable exception: designated land routes will now be determined by the Ministry of Commerce rather than those previously specified under Rule 1054.

Cross-stuffing of Iran-bound cargo is now permitted at Pakistan’s ports and off-dock terminals under the relevant sub-chapter of the Customs Rules.

The Directorate General of Transit Trade in Karachi has been assigned primary responsibility for supervising and facilitating cargo movement under the order.

It is required to conduct daily reconciliation of transported cargo to detect any pilferage en route, with immediate legal action mandated under the Customs Act, 1969 in case of any violation. In addition, the Directorate General of Reforms and Automation has been directed to make any necessary changes to relevant system modules to ensure smooth processing of cargo under the new order.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026