India Imposes Total Ban on Imports from Pakistan After Pahalgam Terror Attack

India Imposes Total Ban on Imports from Pakistan: In a strong response to the brutal terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed the lives of 26 innocent tourists on April 22, the Government of India has imposed a complete ban on all imports from Pakistan, both direct and indirect. The move comes as part of India’s broader strategy to tighten diplomatic and economic pressure on its western neighbor.

The ban was officially notified by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, on Friday. The notification clearly states:

“All direct or indirect import or transit of all goods originating in or exported from Pakistan, whether or not freely importable or otherwise permitted, shall be prohibited with immediate effect until further orders. This restriction is imposed in the interest of national security and public policy.”

Why the Ban?

The decision comes in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack that shook the nation. The government has attributed the attack to groups operating from Pakistani soil, prompting urgent national security measures.

Sources in the Ministry of Commerce confirmed that the Foreign Trade Policy 2023 has been amended to accommodate the new import restrictions.

What Does India Import from Pakistan?

Prior to the ban, India imported several items from Pakistan, including:

• Copper and copper articles
• Edible fruits and nuts
• Cotton
• Salt and sulfur
• Organic chemicals
• Mineral fuels
• Plastic products
• Raw hides, skins, and wool
• Glassware

These imports now stand completely halted, disrupting cross-border trade channels.

India’s Exports to Pakistan Also Affected

While the ban targets imports, it could also indirectly affect India’s exports. Major Indian exports to Pakistan included:

• Cotton and organic chemicals
• Prepared animal fodder
• Vegetables, tea, and spices
• Plastic articles and man-made filament
• Pharmaceuticals and dairy products

Although the current order restricts imports, tensions may lead to reciprocal trade actions by Pakistan in the coming weeks.

Exceptions Only with Government Approval

The DGFT has clarified that no exemptions will be allowed without direct approval from the Government of India. This includes goods that were previously permitted or freely importable under older trade agreements.

National Reaction

Security experts and trade analysts have welcomed the move, calling it a “necessary economic step” to send a clear message. Public sentiment remains strong in favor of stricter actions against state-sponsored terrorism.

What Lies Ahead?

The ban signals a significant downturn in already strained India-Pakistan trade relations. With diplomatic ties continuing to fray, experts believe this may be the beginning of a long-term trade freeze.