Karachi Ports Face Unprecedented Container Surge as Global Shipping Lines Reroute to Pakistan
Pakistan’s maritime sector sees a 1,400% spike in transshipment as global carriers bypass the Strait of Hormuz, turning Karachi and Gwadar into strategic regional hubs.
National Assembly Committee Reviews Export Decline, Rice Sector Support, and Regional Trade Challenges
The National Assembly Standing Committee on Commerce has called for detailed briefings from key ministries and the State Bank of Pakistan to address stagnant exports, rice sector decline, and regional trade issues while endorsing targeted support measures.
SBP Introduces Updated Exporter Undertaking for Payments Through PSW System
The State Bank of Pakistan has issued new rules requiring exporters to submit an updated Undertaking/Declaration via the Pakistan Single Window system, ensuring accurate reporting, timely remittance, and compliance with foreign exchange regulations.
Pakistan’s $30 Billion Import Reporting Gap Raises Transparency Concerns in Trade Data
A new report reveals a $30 billion gap between import figures recorded by PSW and SBP over five years, raising serious questions about data accuracy. The IMF has called for transparency, and a government committee is investigating the discrepancies to restore market confidence.
Pakistan Moves to Reform Barter Trade Mechanism with Iran, Afghanistan, and Russia
Pakistan’s Ministry of Commerce has proposed amendments to the Barter Trade Mechanism with Iran, Afghanistan, and Russia, aiming to simplify processes, expand scope, and strengthen compliance under international trade norms.
State Bank of Pakistan directs banks to terminate clients on Goods Declaration suspicion under AML rules
The State Bank of Pakistan has directed banks to tighten compliance on trade-based transactions, including the option to terminate client relationships if Goods Declaration mismatches raise AML suspicions.