Islamabad, December 9, 2024: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has introduced proposed amendments to the Baggage Rules 2006, limiting travellers from bringing goods valued above $1,200 into Pakistan under the baggage scheme. The move is intended to prevent the misuse of personal luggage for commercial purposes.
According to the draft amendments, goods exceeding $1,200 in value will be classified as commercial trade items and subjected to duties, taxes, and penalties. Passengers will also be restricted to bringing only one mobile phone for personal use; any additional phones will be confiscated.
The FBR has sought feedback from stakeholders within a seven-day window. If no substantial changes are suggested within the deadline, the new regulations will be enforced via a gazette notification.
The revised rules aim to curb the smuggling of commercial goods disguised as personal belongings and ensure compliance with trade regulations. Travelers who previously imported items for resale or business purposes under personal luggage provisions are expected to be significantly impacted.
These regulations reflect the FBR’s broader effort to bring transparency and tighter control over imported goods, ensuring adherence to customs and trade laws.
