Pahalgam attack: India suspends exchange of mail, parcel services with Pakistan

In almost back-to-back punitive actions against Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack, India on Saturday (May 3) suspended the exchange of all categories of mail and parcels from Pakistan through air and surface routes. The move comes after the Centre banned all kinds of import of all goods originating in or exported from Pakistan to India.

The latest order was issued by the Department of Posts that operates under the Ministry of Communication, reports PTI.

Also Read: India bans direct, indirect imports from Pakistan over Pahalgam attack

Ban on Pakistani goods routed through third countries

Earlier, India banned all kinds of imports from Pakistan. Though the 200 per cent import duty imposed on Pakistani goods in 2019 after the Pulwama terror attack had effectively halted direct imports, the decision also prohibits import entry of Pakistani goods routed through third countries.

India's exports to Pakistan in April-January 2024-25 stood at USD 447.65 million, while imports were meagre USD 0.42 million. These imports were limited to niche items like figs (USD 78,000), Basil and Rosemary herbs (USD 18,856), certain chemicals, and Himalayan pink salt. The imports were USD 2.88 million in 2023-24. India had also withdrawn Pakistan's 'Most Favoured Nation' trade status.

The bilateral trade dipped to USD 647.2 million in 2023-24 from USD 2.41 billion in 2017-18 and USD 2.27 billion in 2016-17.

Also Read: Pakistan test-fires ballistic missile; India calls it ‘dangerous escalation’

Provision added in FTP

A provision has been added in Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023 "to prohibit direct or indirect import or transit of all goods originating in or exported from Pakistan with immediate effect until further orders," the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) said in a notification dated May 2.

It added this restriction is imposed in the interest of "national security and public policy". Any exception to this prohibition will require approval of Government of India, the order said.

Inserting the provision under the heading "Prohibition on Import from Pakistan" in the FTP, it said: "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".

Also Read: Any structure to divert Indus water will be destroyed, warns Pakistan

Pakistan’s export sector to be hit

The ban of imports from Pakistan is likely to hit hard its export sector which is already struggling. It relies heavily on commodities gained through cross-border trade such as cement, textiles, and agricultural produce. With its economy already in poor shape, the move could increase economic pressure on the neighbouring country.

Earlier, the Centre issued an order stating any vessel bearing the flag of Pakistan is barred from visiting Indian ports, while Indian-flagged ships are likewise prohibited from docking at ports in Pakistan, reported Economic Times.

The Centre has vowed to ensure severe punishment to the perpetrators and backers involved in the Pahalgam terror attack citing "cross-border linkages" to the terror strike.

(With inputs from agencies)