
Pakistan Moves to Fully Suspend Trade with India Amid Policy Shift
The Ministry of Commerce is set to present a formal proposal to the federal cabinet, seeking approval to halt all remaining imports from India. This move would eliminate existing exemptions for essential health-related imports, including life-saving medicines and vaccines.
While Pakistan has maintained a general trade ban with India since August 5, 2019, certain critical medical supplies—such as Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI) vaccines and anti-rabies treatments—have continued to be imported. If approved, the ban could disrupt the availability of these products, creating a temporary supply gap.
Officials suggest that alternative imports from China may help mitigate the impact, but the registration process for new suppliers could take time. The final decision rests with the cabinet, and a formal notification will follow upon approval.