Pakistan-Iran trade halted as Taftan border shuts

QUETTA: Cross-border trade between Pakistan and Iran came to a sudden halt at the Taftan border crossing on Saturday after the closure of the Federal Investigation Agency’s (FIA) immigration gate and the withdrawal of an import-related waiver.

The unexpected development has raised concerns among traders about possible financial losses worth millions of rupees and disruptions to commercial activities between the two countries.

According to sources, the immigration gate was closed on the instructions of senior officials in Islamabad. However, authorities have not publicly explained the reasons for the decision or announced when normal operations will resume.

The suspension coincided with a regulatory change by the Ministry of Commerce. On Friday, the ministry withdrew an earlier order issued on October 3 that had extended the Electronic Import Form (EIF) waiver for goods imported from Iran.

Following the developments, the Quetta Chamber of Commerce and Industry issued an advisory urging traders to temporarily suspend new purchases, product bookings and other commercial commitments involving Iran.

The chamber warned that proceeding without clear regulatory guidance could lead to delays in customs clearance and expose importers to significant financial risks.

It also advised traders to confirm the applicable EIF requirements with the Federal Board of Revenue, the Ministry of Commerce and border authorities before placing new orders.

Business representatives stressed that the government needed to clarify its policy and resolve the situation promptly to protect traders and restore regular commercial activities at the crossing.

Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said border crossings and exchanges with Pakistan had been temporarily suspended due to technical issues and precautionary measures.

He added that the relevant authorities of both countries were in contact and holding consultations to resolve the matter as soon as possible and restore normal operations at the border crossings.