Category: News

Hi, it’s Faiz from Maalbardaar.

After last week’s focus on rising import pressure and landed cost planning, Pakistan’s supply chain story is now moving towards long-term energy security.

This week, the main developments are:

• Fuel prices have come down sharply.
• Foreign exchange reserves have improved.
• Port infrastructure is receiving more attention.
• Energy security remains a major concern.

Pakistan still depends heavily on energy supplies moving through the Strait of Hormuz. Regional tensions have shown how quickly fuel prices, shipping costs, insurance rates, and freight planning can change.

The Current Situation: Pakistan Plans Strategic Oil Reserves

Pakistan is planning to increase its storage capacity for crude oil and refined petroleum products.

According to a Reuters report on Pakistan’s energy-security plans, up to 90% of Pakistan’s oil and LNG imports pass through the Strait of Hormuz.

The proposed plan includes:

• Building emergency petroleum reserves
• Allowing international suppliers to store fuel in bonded terminals
• Increasing storage through refineries and oil marketing companies
• Improving energy infrastructure around Hub and Port Qasim
• Strengthening pipeline connectivity
• Reducing reliance on smaller and more expensive shipments

The government aims to finalise the bonded-storage framework in June 2026.

The Reality:

Pakistan’s supply chain cannot depend only on cargo arriving safely each week.

The country also needs:

• Stronger storage capacity
• Emergency reserves
• Better port infrastructure
• Improved energy planning

Key Updates:

1. Petrol and Diesel Prices Fall by Rs 22 Per Litre

According to Pakistan State Oil’s latest fuel-price data, petrol is now priced at Rs 381.78 per litre, while high-speed diesel is priced at Rs 380.78 per litre.

The new prices became effective on May 30, 2026.

The Breakdown:

• Petrol: Rs 381.78 per litre
• Diesel: Rs 380.78 per litre
• Price reduction: Rs 22 per litre

The Reality:

Lower diesel prices may reduce pressure on:

• Trucking costs
• Container movement
• Port-to-warehouse transport
• Last-mile delivery

But businesses should still check freight rates before confirming shipments. Transporters may not reduce prices immediately.

2. Foreign Exchange Reserves Improve

Pakistan’s total liquid foreign exchange reserves increased to $22.65 billion as of May 22, 2026, according to the State Bank of Pakistan’s reserve data.

The Breakdown:

• SBP reserves: $17.15 billion
• Commercial bank reserves: $5.50 billion
• Total reserves: $22.65 billion

The Reality:

Stronger reserves can support:

• Import payments
• Fuel purchases
• LNG procurement
• Shipping payments
• Exchange rate stability

3. Port Qasim Starts Local Dredging Operations

Port Qasim Authority has signed an agreement for local dredging operations.

The goal is to:

• Improve navigational depth
• Reduce dependence on foreign contractors
• Save foreign exchange
• Improve long-term cargo movement

The Reality:

Better dredging can help larger vessels enter the port safely.

Port capacity is not only about terminals and cranes. Safe access for vessels also matters.

4. Cargo Ship Incident Near Karachi Port

Two cargo vessels came into contact near Karachi Port on May 28, 2026.

According to Business Recorder’s report on the Karachi Port incident, no injuries were reported, and the damaged vessel was safely moved into Karachi Harbour.

The Reality:

The incident shows why port safety and shipment visibility remain important.

Supply chains can be affected by:

• Vessel incidents
• Port congestion
• Documentation delays
• Inland transport issues
• Regional disruptions

5. FY27 Budget Expected on June 5

Pakistan’s federal budget for FY2026–27 is expected to be presented on June 5, 2026.

According to Business Recorder’s budget update, businesses should watch for possible changes in:

• Customs duties
• Taxes
• Fuel levies
• Import policies
• Regulatory costs

The Reality:

Importers and exporters should review their landed cost assumptions after the budget is announced.

Even a small change in taxes, duties, or fuel levies can affect the final cost of a shipment.

What This Means for Importers and Exporters

This week brings some relief, but businesses still need to plan carefully.

Focus on:

• Tracking freight rates after the fuel-price cut
• Preparing for budget-linked cost changes
• Checking customs documents before cargo arrives
• Monitoring inland freight costs
• Calculating landed cost before confirming shipments

Your landed cost should include:

• Freight charges
• Fuel surcharges
• Insurance
• Duties and taxes
• Exchange rate impact
• Port charges
• Customs clearance
• Inland transportation

Secure Your Logistics in a Changing Market

Maalbardaar helps importers and exporters manage:

• Freight
• Customs clearance
• Transportation
• Documentation
• Shipment tracking

We combine pre-arrival digital customs clearance with access to freight rates, helping businesses improve visibility and make stronger decisions before delays and extra costs affect their shipments.

Take control of your supply chain with Maalbardaar.

Join Maalbardaar today

Join our WhatsApp channel for daily updates.

Don’t let delays or rising costs define your year.

Stay informed, stay proactive, and stay ahead with Maalbardaar.

Hi, it’s Faiz from Maalbardaar.

This week, Pakistan’s supply chain story is shifting from short-term relief to renewed import pressure.

The key issue is clear:

Fuel prices have come down again, reserves have improved, and port activity remains strong.

But Pakistan’s import bill is still heavy, the current account has moved back into deficit, and logistics costs remain sensitive to:

• Fuel prices
• Exchange rate movement
• Documentation delays
• Global energy risk
• Inland freight costs

The Current Situation: Import Pressure Is Back in Focus

Pakistan posted a current account deficit of $324 million in April 2026, mainly because imports rose faster than exports. Goods and services exports reached $3.47 billion, while imports reached $6.86 billion, up over 11% year-on-year.

The cumulative current account for 10MFY26 also moved to a $252 million deficit, compared to a surplus in the same period last year.

The Breakdown:

• Imports reached $6.86 billion in April 2026.
• Exports of goods and services reached $3.47 billion.
• 10MFY26 current account stood at a $252 million deficit.
• Imports increased faster than exports.

The Reality:

Pakistan is getting some relief from fuel cuts and stronger reserves.

But the import side is still creating pressure.

For importers, this means landed cost planning is now more important than ever.

For exporters, this means speed, documentation, and freight visibility are becoming key advantages.

Key Updates:

1. Petrol and Diesel Prices Cut Again

Pakistan State Oil’s latest listed fuel prices show petrol at Rs 403.78 per litre and high-speed diesel at Rs 402.78 per litre, effective May 23, 2026.

This is lower than the May 16 prices of Rs 409.78 for petrol and Rs 409.58 for diesel.

The Breakdown:

• Petrol is now Rs 403.78 per litre.
• High-speed diesel is now Rs 402.78 per litre.
• Both prices are still above Rs 400 per litre.
• The price cut gives some short-term relief to inland movement.

The Reality:

This gives some relief to:

• Trucking
• Container movement
• Last-mile delivery
• Inland freight planning

But diesel is still expensive.

Transporters will continue pricing fuel risk into freight rates, especially for inland routes.

2. SBP Reserves Improve Strongly

The State Bank of Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserve data listed SBP reserves at $17.081 billion as of May 15, 2026.

Total liquid reserves stood at $22.588 billion, including commercial bank reserves of $5.507 billion.

The Breakdown:

• SBP reserves stood at $17.081 billion.
• Commercial bank reserves stood at $5.507 billion.
• Total liquid reserves stood at $22.588 billion.
• Reserves improved compared to earlier levels.

The Reality:

Stronger reserves help Pakistan manage external payments.

This matters for logistics because external account stability affects:

• Import payments
• LC confidence
• Fuel purchases
• LNG movement
• Shipping charges
• Exchange rate pressure

But reserves alone do not remove the pressure from a rising import bill.

3. Weekly Inflation Eases Slightly

Pakistan’s weekly Sensitive Price Indicator stood at 357.54 for the week ended May 21, 2026, showing a 0.33% decrease from the previous week, according to PBS.

The Breakdown:

• SPI fell by 0.33% week-on-week.
• The data is for the week ended May 21, 2026.
• Lower fuel prices helped ease some short-term pressure.
• Weekly inflation showed slight improvement.

The Reality:

This is a positive sign, but it does not mean costs are low.

Businesses are still facing pressure from:

• Food costs
• Fuel costs
• Electricity costs
• Packaging costs
• Transport costs

Businesses should not plan freight and pricing only on one week of relief.

4. Karachi Port and Port Qasim Remain Active

Karachi Port Trust handled 185,397 tonnes of cargo in the 24 hours ending May 21, 2026.

This included 114,056 tonnes of import cargo and 71,341 tonnes of export cargo. Port Qasim also handled 235,941 tonnes during the same 24-hour reporting period.

The Breakdown:

• KPT total cargo stood at 185,397 tonnes.
• KPT import cargo stood at 114,056 tonnes.
• KPT export cargo stood at 71,341 tonnes.
• Port Qasim handled 235,941 tonnes.
• Both major ports remained active.

The Reality:

Port activity is not the main problem.

The bigger issue is now coordination after cargo movement.

Importers and exporters need stronger control over:

• Paperwork
• Customs readiness
• Inland freight
• Payment coordination
• Shipment visibility
• Delivery timelines

5. IMF Talks Keep Budget and Energy Costs in Focus

The IMF concluded talks with Pakistani authorities on May 20, 2026, focused on economic developments, fiscal plans, and reforms.

The IMF also said Pakistan has committed to a primary surplus target of 2% of GDP in FY2027, while monitoring energy price effects remains important.

The Breakdown:

• IMF talks focused on reforms and the next fiscal year’s budget.
• Pakistan committed to a 2% of GDP primary surplus target for FY2027.
• Energy price effects remain a key concern.
• Budget decisions may affect taxes, duties, and fuel-related costs.

The Reality:

Budget decisions can directly affect supply chains.

Importers and exporters should watch for changes in:

• Fuel levies
• Customs duties
• Sales tax
• Import policies
• Financing conditions
• Energy costs

Businesses should prepare early instead of reacting after new costs are announced.

What This Means For Importers & Exporters: The Strategic Pivot

This week shows a mixed picture.

On the positive side:

• Fuel prices have come down.
• Reserves have improved.
• Ports are active.
• Weekly inflation eased slightly.

But the risks remain clear:

• Imports are still high.
• The current account has moved into deficit.
• Logistics costs remain exposed to policy changes.
• Energy costs can still affect freight and production.
• Inland movement is still expensive.

Your logistics strategy this week should focus on:

• Landed cost control
• Faster documentation
• Better shipment visibility
• Early customs preparation
• Flexible freight planning

Track Freight Costs Closely

The fuel cut helps, but diesel is still above Rs 400 per litre.

Do not assume transport rates will fall immediately.

Before confirming shipment pricing, check:

• Inland freight rates
• Fuel adjustment costs
• Container movement charges
• Last-mile delivery costs
• Port-to-warehouse transport costs

Prepare for Budget-Linked Cost Changes

With IMF and budget talks moving forward, importers should expect possible changes in duties, taxes, levies, and regulatory costs.

Build a buffer into landed cost calculations.

Businesses should review:

• Import duties
• Tax exposure
• Fuel-related costs
• Customs documentation
• Freight contracts
• Payment timelines

Use Active Ports to Your Advantage

KPT and Port Qasim are handling strong volumes.

If your cargo is delayed, the issue may not be the port itself.

The delay may be linked to:

• Customs documentation
• Payment coordination
• Clearance readiness
• Inland transport availability
• Delivery scheduling

Protect Your Landed Cost Before Cargo Arrives

Freight, insurance, fuel, exchange rate, duties, and local transportation can all change the final cost.

Calculate the full landed cost before booking, not after arrival.

Your landed cost should include:

• Freight charges
• Insurance
• Duties and taxes
• Exchange rate impact
• Port charges
• Customs clearance
• Inland transportation
• Warehousing or delay costs

Secure Your Logistics in a Volatile Market

Maalbardaar provides the visibility and speed to navigate this crisis.

We combine pre-arrival digital customs clearance with instant access to freight rates.

Because our network is integrated, we provide transparent, algorithm-backed freight rates that protect you from wild spot-market price changes.

Register on Maalbardaar!

Take full control of your supply chain from freight, customs clearance, transportation, and shipment tracking with Maalbardaar.

With Maalbardaar, your team can manage:

• Freight rates
• Customs clearance
• Documentation
• Transportation
• Shipment tracking
• Supply chain visibility

Join Maalbardaar today!

Join our WhatsApp channel for daily updates.

Don’t let delays or rising costs define your year.

Stay informed, stay proactive, and stay ahead with Maalbardaar.

Hi, it’s Faiz from Maalbardaar.

This week, Pakistan’s supply chain story is moving from trade pressure to energy movement, port activity, and external account support.

The key issue is clear:

Pakistan is still facing high logistics costs, but there are signs of short-term relief through lower fuel prices, stronger remittances, and continued LNG movement into Port Qasim.

The Current Situation: Energy Risk Remains Active

Pakistan’s energy supply chain is still directly linked to the Middle East crisis.

A second Qatari LNG tanker, Mihzem, successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz and headed toward Pakistan’s Port Qasim. The vessel has a capacity of around 174,000 cubic meters and followed the earlier movement of another Qatari LNG tanker, Al Kharaitiyat.

The Breakdown:

• The tanker departed from Ras Laffan in Qatar.
• It crossed the Strait of Hormuz despite the ongoing Iran conflict.
• Two more LNG tankers are also expected to follow under the same arrangement.

The Reality:

• This is a positive sign for Pakistan’s energy supply.
• However, it also shows that LNG movement is no longer routine.
• Every cargo now depends on route security, regional approvals, and geopolitical stability.

Key Updates:

1. Petrol and Diesel Prices Cut by Rs 5 Per Litre

The government reduced petrol and diesel prices by Rs 5 per litre from May 16, 2026. Petrol was reduced from Rs 414.78 to Rs 409.78 per litre, while high-speed diesel was reduced from Rs 414.58 to Rs 409.58 per litre.

The Breakdown:

• Petrol is now Rs 409.78 per litre.
• High-speed diesel is now Rs 409.58 per litre.
• The reduction applies from May 16, 2026.

The Reality:

• This gives slight relief to inland freight.
• However, diesel is still above Rs 400 per litre.
• Trucking, container movement, and last-mile delivery remain expensive.

2. Remittances Reach $3.54 Billion in April

Pakistan received $3.54 billion in workers’ remittances in April 2026. Remittances were down 7.6% month-on-month, but up 11.4% year-on-year.

The Breakdown:

• April remittances stood at $3.54 billion.
• Jul-Apr FY26 remittances reached $33.86 billion.
• This is up 8.5% compared to $31.21 billion during the same period last year.

The Reality:

• Remittances are helping support Pakistan’s external position.
• For trade and logistics, this matters because stronger inflows help reduce pressure on the rupee, reserves, and import payments.

3. SBP Reserves Rise to $15.87 Billion

SBP-held foreign exchange reserves increased by $17 million during the week, reaching $15.867 billion as of May 8, 2026.

The Breakdown:

• SBP reserves stood at $15.867 billion.
• The weekly increase was $17 million.
• Total liquid foreign reserves stood at $21.337 billion.
• Commercial banks held $5.469 billion.

The Reality:

• Reserves are moving in the right direction.
• However, the import bill remains a major concern.
• Pakistan still needs to manage fuel, LNG, machinery, and raw material imports carefully.

4. KPT Handles Over 244,000 Tonnes in 24 Hours

Karachi Port Trust handled 244,169 tonnes of cargo in a 24-hour period this week. This included 140,925 tonnes of import cargo and 103,244 tonnes of export cargo.

The Breakdown:

• Import cargo stood at 140,925 tonnes.
• Export cargo stood at 103,244 tonnes.
• Liquid cargo alone accounted for 79,144 tonnes of imports.

The Reality:

• Port activity remains strong.
• The pressure is now shifting from port movement to inland freight, documentation speed, and cost management.

5. Middle East War Raises Import Bill Risk

The State Bank of Pakistan warned that higher energy prices, insurance costs, and freight costs linked to the Middle East conflict could increase Pakistan’s import bill.

The Breakdown:

• Energy prices remain volatile.
• Insurance and freight costs are under pressure.
• Higher import costs can affect inflation, reserves, and trade flows.

The Reality:

• Even if cargo is moving, the cost of moving that cargo is still unstable.
• For importers and exporters, freight planning now needs to include geopolitical risk, not just normal market rates.

What This Means For Importers & Exporters: The Strategic Pivot

This week, Pakistan’s supply chain is showing both relief and risk.

Fuel prices have come down slightly, remittances are strong, and LNG cargo is moving through Hormuz.

But diesel is still expensive, reserves still need protection, and energy-linked shipping remains fragile.

Your logistics strategy this week must prioritize:

• Cost visibility before confirming shipments.
• Documentation speed before cargo arrival.
• Flexible shipment planning in case routes or schedules shift.
• Inland freight monitoring because diesel remains above Rs 400 per litre.
• Energy-linked risk planning for cold chain, factory output, and time-sensitive cargo.

Track Inland Freight Closely

• The Rs 5 fuel price cut helps, but it does not remove inland freight pressure.
• With diesel still above Rs 400 per litre, transporters will continue pricing risk into trucking and container movement.

Plan Around Energy-Linked Delays

• LNG cargoes are reaching Port Qasim, but the route remains sensitive.
• Any disruption in Hormuz can quickly affect energy supply, industrial output, and cold chain reliability.

Use Port Speed to Your Advantage

• KPT’s 24-hour cargo movement shows that port activity is active.
• If your cargo is delayed, the issue may now be paperwork, customs readiness, or inland coordination.

Protect Landed Cost

• Freight, insurance, fuel, duties, and exchange rate changes can all affect final cost.
• Importers should calculate landed cost before confirming shipments, not after cargo arrival.

Secure Your Logistics in a Volatile Market

Maalbardaar provides the visibility and speed to navigate this crisis.

We combine:

• Pre-arrival digital customs clearance
• Instant access to freight rates
• Shipment tracking
• Documentation support
• Customs coordination
• Transport planning

Because our network is integrated, we provide transparent, algorithm-backed freight rates that protect you from wild spot-market price gouging.

Register on Maalbardaar!

Take full control of your supply chain with Maalbardaar, including:

• Freight
• Customs clearance
• Transportation
• Documentation
• Shipment visibility

Join Maalbardaar today!

Join Our WhatsApp Channel for Daily Updates!

Don’t let delays or rising costs define your year.

Stay informed, stay proactive, and stay ahead with Maalbardaar.

Join Our WhatsApp Channel

Hi, it’s Faiz from Maalbardaar.

This week, the story is not just about ports or shipping routes.

The bigger story is Pakistan’s trade pressure.

Imports are rising, inflation is back in double digits, fuel costs are climbing, and LNG uncertainty is still affecting energy planning.

The Current Situation: Trade Deficit Hits 46-Month High

Pakistan’s trade deficit crossed $4.07 billion in April 2026, the highest level in 46 months.

The Breakdown:

• Exports reached $2.48 billion in April 2026, up 14% year-on-year.
• Imports reached $6.55 billion, up 7.46% year-on-year.
• On a monthly basis, imports jumped 28.41%, which pushed the trade gap sharply higher.
• For July-April FY26, the trade deficit reached around $31.98 billion, up 20.28% from $26.59 billion last year.

The Reality:

• Exports are improving, but imports are rising faster.

• This means Pakistan is moving more goods, but the pressure on foreign exchange and logistics costs is also increasing.

Key Updates:

1. Pakistan Cancels LNG Spot Bids, Then Returns to the Market

Pakistan LNG Limited issued a fresh tender for two LNG cargoes to be delivered at Port Qasim. Each cargo is specified at 140,000 cubic meters, with delivery windows set for May 12–16 and May 24–28. The deadline for bid submissions was May 11.

This came after Pakistan rejected earlier LNG offers from BP and TotalEnergies, expecting tensions to ease and prices to come down.

The Breakdown:

• The earlier bids were reportedly around $16.98 to $17.28 per MMBtu.

• Pakistan is trying to manage energy supply without locking in expensive spot cargoes.

The Implication:

• LNG supply is still vulnerable to Middle East shipping disruptions.
• If energy supply becomes uncertain, industrial production, cold chain reliability, and delivery timelines can also be affected.

2. IMF Approves $1.32 Billion for Pakistan

The IMF approved access to $1.32 billion in funding for Pakistan.

The Breakdown:

• Around $1.1 billion comes under the Extended Fund Facility.

• Around $220 million comes under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility.

• Total disbursements under the programs have now reached around $4.8 billion.

The Reality:

• This supports Pakistan’s external financing position.

• However, the country still needs export growth, controlled imports, and stable reserves to reduce pressure on trade and currency.

3. Inflation Returns to Double Digits

Pakistan’s CPI inflation rose to 10.9% in April 2026, compared to 7.3% in March.

The Breakdown:

• Monthly inflation increased by 2.5% in April.

• Urban inflation reached 11.1%.

• Rural inflation reached 10.6%.

• Wholesale Price Index inflation rose to 13.6%, while SPI inflation rose to 12.6%.

The Reality:

• Costs are rising again across the economy.

• For logistics, this means higher pressure on transport rates, warehousing, labour, packaging, and inland movement.

4. Fuel Prices Add More Pressure to Inland Freight

Fuel prices remain a major pressure point for Pakistan’s logistics sector.

The Breakdown:

• Petrol increased by Rs 14.92 per litre.

• High-speed diesel increased by Rs 15 per litre.

• Earlier in May, diesel had already been under pressure from higher global oil prices and Middle East disruption.

The Reality:

• Diesel is the backbone of Pakistan’s inland freight.

• A Rs 15 per litre increase directly affects trucking, delivery rates, container movement, and domestic distribution costs.

5. Foreign Exchange Reserves Improve Slightly

SBP-held foreign exchange reserves increased by $23 million during the week ended April 30, 2026.

The Breakdown:

• SBP reserves stood at $15.85 billion.

• Total liquid foreign reserves stood at $21.29 billion.

• Commercial banks held $5.44 billion.

The Reality:

• Reserves are improving, but the trade deficit is also widening.

• This means Pakistan still needs to manage imports carefully, especially fuel, LNG, machinery, and raw materials.

What This Means For Importers & Exporters: The Strategic Pivot

With Pakistan’s trade deficit crossing $4.07 billion in April, inflation returning to 10.9%, and LNG procurement still uncertain, businesses need to treat logistics as a cost-control function, not just a shipment function.

Your logistics strategy this week must prioritize visibility, flexibility, and faster decision-making.

Secure Your Logistics in a Volatile Market

Maalbardaar provides the visibility and speed to navigate this crisis.

We combine pre-arrival digital customs clearance with instant access to freight rates. Because our network is integrated, we provide transparent, algorithm-backed freight rates that protect you from wild spot-market price changes.

Register on Maalbardaar

Take full control of your supply chain from freight, customs clearance, transportation, and more with Maalbardaar.

Join Maalbardaar today!

Join Our WhatsApp Channel for Daily Updates

Don’t let delays or rising costs define your year. Stay informed, stay proactive, and stay ahead with Maalbardaar.

Join Our WhatsApp Channel

As an importer in Pakistan, your profit margin is decided before your cargo even leaves the port of origin. Miscalculating your customs duties doesn’t just eat into your profits, it can completely wipe them out.

With shifting Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) policies, fluctuating exchange rates, and sudden regulatory changes, estimating your landed cost using manual spreadsheets is a massive financial risk.

If you are serious about protecting your margins, you must understand exactly how Pakistan Customs structures its tariffs. Here is the ultimate guide to understanding your import taxes and how to calculate your exact landed costs.

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The 5 Pillars of Pakistan Import Taxes

When your cargo arrives at KPT, Port Qasim, or any dry port, the final tax bill generated on your Goods Declaration (GD) is not a single flat fee. It is a compounding formula made up of five distinct tax categories.

1. Customs Duty (CD)

This is the baseline tax applied to your imported goods. The percentage is entirely dependent on your item’s 8-digit HS Code, officially known as the Pakistan Customs Tariff (PCT) Code. Raw materials generally attract lower CD (0% to 5%), while finished consumer goods can face 20% or more.

2. Regulatory Duty (RD)

The government frequently uses RD to discourage the import of luxury items or goods that compete with local manufacturing. RD can be volatile and is frequently updated by the Ministry of Commerce via statutory notifications. It can range anywhere from 5% to over 100% depending on the commodity.

3. Additional Customs Duty (ACD)

ACD is an extra layer of duty applied across most imports, typically ranging from 2% to 7%, calculated on the customs value of the goods.

4. Sales Tax (ST)

Imposed under the Sales Tax Act, this is generally applied at a standard rate (historically 18%, though subject to federal budget updates) on the total value of the goods after Customs Duty and other primary duties have been added.

5. Income Tax (IT) / Withholding Tax (WHT)

This is an advance tax collected at the import stage. Filer statuses matter heavily here. Active taxpayers on the FBR’s Active Taxpayers List (ATL) pay significantly lower withholding tax (e.g., 1% to 5.5%), while non-filers face punitive rates that can double their tax liability.

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The Hidden Trap: FBR Valuation Rulings

The biggest mistake new importers make is calculating duties based solely on their Commercial Invoice value.

Pakistan Customs does not always accept your declared invoice value. To prevent under-invoicing, the Directorate General of Customs Valuation issues binding Valuation Rulings under Section 25A of the Customs Act, 1969. If you declare a shipment of electronics at $2.00 per kg, but the FBR Valuation Ruling states the minimum acceptable value is $5.00 per kg, Customs is legally bound to assess your taxes based on the $5.00 valuation.

Failure to check the latest Valuation Rulings before shipping will result in massive, unexpected tax bills when your container lands.

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The Customs Duty Calculation Formula

The calculation of Pakistan import duties is compounding. Here is the simplified, step-by-step math flow used during the assessment:

1. Determine Value for Customs Purposes (VCP): Cost of Goods + Freight + Insurance. Convert this total USD amount to PKR using the official daily exchange rate set by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP).
2. Calculate CD: VCP x Customs Duty %
3. Calculate RD & ACD: VCP x Regulatory Duty %(and) VCP x Additional Customs Duty %
4. Calculate Sales Tax (ST): (VCP + CD + RD + ACD) x Sales Tax %
5. Calculate Income Tax (IT): (VCP + CD + RD + ACD + ST) x Income Tax %

Your Total Payable Duty = CD + RD + ACD + ST + IT

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Leverage SROs to Minimize Your Tax Burden

You do not always have to pay the maximum rate. The FBR frequently issues Statutory Regulatory Orders (SROs) that grant partial or full tax exemptions.

• Industrial Exemptions: Raw materials imported for specific manufacturing sectors often qualify for massive CD reductions under specific SROs.
• Free Trade Agreements (FTAs): Goods imported from China (under CPFTA), Sri Lanka, or Malaysia can benefit from heavily reduced tariffs, provided you present a valid Certificate of Origin.

Claiming an SRO requires exact matching of PCT codes and rigorous documentation. A single typo on your commercial invoice can void your exemption.

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Stop Guessing. Start Automating.

Calculating manual duties leaves you vulnerable to outdated SROs, incorrect PCT classifications, and unannounced Valuation Rulings. When you guess your landed costs, you risk your entire profit margin.

Maalbardaar eliminates the guesswork. Our digital dashboard cross-references your cargo against the absolute latest FBR tax slabs, Valuation Rulings, and active SROs in real-time. We provide highly accurate, algorithm-backed duty estimations before your cargo even ships, and electronically file your Goods Declarations for rapid customs clearance.

Protect Your Margins Today

Stop relying on outdated spreadsheets and delayed broker estimates. Get transparent, precise, and automated customs clearance with Maalbardaar.

👉 Register on Maalbardaar to Calculate Your Duties

Hi, it’s Faiz from Maalbardaar.

We are living through a paradox in the global supply chain. While the Middle East crisis continues to escalate, with the US-Iran conflict heavily disrupting global shipping, Pakistan’s logistics sector is actually breaking records.

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The Current Situation: Inland Freight Remains Expensive

Just when the transport sector needed a break, the government announced another painful price hike on May 1st. The ex-depot price of High-Speed Diesel (HSD) was raised by a staggering Rs 19.39 per litre, while petrol saw an increase of Rs 6.51 per litre, pushing fuel costs dangerously close to the Rs 400 mark.

• The Reality: This hike is a direct reflection of surging global crude oil prices (with Brent crude testing $126/barrel) and the geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. High-speed diesel is the lifeblood of Pakistan’s logistics, and this nearly Rs 20 jump is an immediate blow to domestic freight.

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Key Updates

1. 25,000 MT Tuna Export Quota Secured

Over the weekend, the Ministry of Maritime Affairs announced a massive win for Pakistan’s seafood sector. On World Tuna Day (May 2-3), the government successfully secured a 25,000 metric tonne quota from the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC).

• The Breakdown: The quota includes 15,000 tonnes of yellowfin tuna and 10,000 tonnes of skipjack.
• The Implication: This is expected to generate approximately $200 million in immediate export revenue. If you operate in the perishables sector, infrastructure upgrades at harbours like Korangi are imminent. You must ensure your digital customs clearance processes are flawless to capture the strict European market without risking spoilage at the port.

2. KPT Sets a Historic Record: 111,300 TEUs Handled

Despite the Middle East shipping crisis, the Karachi Port Trust (KPT) achieved its highest-ever monthly container handling, processing a staggering 111,300 TEUs.

• The Reality: The recent waiver on extra storage fees and the aggressive auctioning of surplus goods cleared years of yard congestion. Port Qasim has officially reported a zero-container backlog, and for the first time in its 137-year history, KPT ran full operations straight through the recent Eid holidays with over 2,500 container movements.

3. Gwadar Activated for Dedicated Trans-Shipment

To support Karachi and Port Qasim, Gwadar Port has officially managed its first dedicated trans-shipment operations, successfully processing four vessels recently.

• The Implication: The high-level committee’s vision to position Karachi, Port Qasim, and Gwadar as a combined regional trans-shipment hub is actively materializing, providing much-needed relief valves for future maritime traffic.

4. Mango Export Delays Flagged

The National Assembly (NA) committee has raised formal objections regarding a potential delay to the start of the mango export season, which authorities are pushing to June 1st.

• The Implication: If you are an agricultural exporter handling early mango crops, this delay could severely impact your transit timelines and crop viability. Prepare your supply chain for sudden regulatory shifts and ensure your air-freight and reefer container bookings are highly flexible this month.

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What This Means For Importers & Exporters: The Strategic Pivot

With ports breaking operational records, new export quotas emerging, and regulatory timelines shifting abruptly, your logistics strategy this week must prioritize speed and adaptability:

• Prioritize Digital Customs: KPT has eliminated its physical backlogs. If your cargo gets delayed now, it is due to slow paperwork. Digitize your customs clearance processes to match the port’s record speed and secure immediate releases.
• Maintain Flexible Bookings: Sudden export delays and strict new quotas demand agility. Avoid rigid shipping schedules and ensure your freight capacity (especially reefer and air) can be adjusted quickly without heavy cancellation penalties.
• Explore Alternative Routings: With Gwadar now actively handling dedicated trans-shipment cargo, regional traffic flows are changing. Monitor these developing maritime routes to find less congested, alternative channels for your transit trade.

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Maalbardaar provides the visibility and speed to navigate this crisis. We combine pre-arrival digital customs clearance with instant access to freight rates. Because our network is integrated, we provide transparent, algorithm-backed freight rates that protect you from wild spot-market price gouging.

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Hi, it’s Faiz from Maalbardaar.

As global oil markets stabilize and maritime bottlenecks slowly begin to clear, Pakistan’s logistics and trade sectors are experiencing a massive strategic shift.

This week, the focus has moved from crisis management to regional expansion. Exporters have officially gained a brand new, highly anticipated land route to Central Asia, fundamentally changing how we look at cross-border trade. Meanwhile, domestic economic indicators are showing serious resilience as the Finance Ministry secures international confidence at the IMF-World Bank Spring Meetings in Washington.

However, as export opportunities expand, the physical reality of our domestic ports remains a challenge. The debate over Karachi vs. Gwadar’s capacity has resurfaced, reminding importers that efficient port clearance is still the single biggest hurdle to landed profitability.

Here is exactly what happened this week and how you need to adjust your supply chain strategy immediately.

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The Current Situation: The Strait of Hormuz Remains Closed

Despite reports of a brief reopening on Friday, the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed to commercial shipping this weekend. The U.S. is continuing to enforce its naval blockade on Iranian ports, which prompted Iran’s Revolutionary Guard to reverse its reopening decision and warn that any approaching vessels will be targeted.

With major shipping associations advising against the crossing, mother vessels bound for Karachi remain stalled or diverted, meaning Pakistani supply chains will continue to face severe inbound cargo delays until a concrete diplomatic resolution is reached.

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Key Updates: New Trade Corridors & Port Realities

1. Pakistan Activates New Transit Trade Corridor to Central Asia

In a monumental shift for regional connectivity, Pakistan has officially operationalized a new transit trade corridor through Iran by activating the Gabd-Rimdan border terminal. Under the Transports Internationaux Routiers (TIR) system, Pakistan successfully dispatched its first export consignment of frozen meat from Karachi to Tashkent, Uzbekistan, effectively bypassing the traditional, unpredictable Afghan route.

• Implication: For exporters, this is a game-changer. This new corridor drastically reduces transit time and transportation costs to landlocked Central Asian markets. Exporters looking to diversify beyond US and European markets now have a safe, modern, and highly efficient land route available.

2. The Deep-Water Reality: KPT & Port Qasim Remain King

While Gwadar is heavily pitched as the next transshipment hub, logistics experts and the Pakistan Ships’ Agents Association issued a stark reminder this week regarding technical limitations. Currently, Karachi’s Port Qasim remains Pakistan’s only true deep-water port with a draft of around 16 meters. Because Gwadar’s operational draft is currently limited to 12.5 meters, standard mother vessels (13-14 meters) cannot dock there.

• Implication: The vast majority of containerized import and export traffic will continue to bottleneck at KPT and Port Qasim for the foreseeable future. If you are an importer, you cannot rely on Gwadar to relieve Karachi’s congestion just yet. Speeding up your clearance at Karachi remains your only defense against demurrage.

3. Economic Stability & Eurobond Success

At the World Bank-IMF Spring Meetings in Washington, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb reported that Pakistan is steadily moving toward economic stability. He highlighted a massive current account surplus of over $1 billion in March and the successful private placement of a $500 million Eurobond, marking Pakistan’s confident return to international capital markets.

• Implication: The macroeconomic environment is stabilizing, and investor confidence is returning. As the economy strengthens, industrial demand for imported raw materials will accelerate, putting even more pressure on port infrastructure.

4. SBP Reserves Adjust After UAE Repayment

The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) repaid $2 billion to the United Arab Emirates this week to meet external debt obligations, temporarily bringing the country’s foreign exchange reserves down to $15.08 billion. Despite this massive outflow, the Pakistani Rupee (PKR) remains remarkably steady against the USD.

• Implication: The central bank is managing its dollar liquidity well. For importers, a stable PKR means more predictable landed costs and smoother processing for Electronic Import Forms (EIFs) and Letters of Credit (LCs) through local commercial banks.

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What This Means For Importers & Exporters: The Strategic Pivot

With new export routes opening and Karachi’s ports handling the bulk of the nation’s deep-water traffic, your supply chain must be built for agility. Here is your playbook for Week 16:

1. Explore the Central Asian Market: If you are an exporter, you need to immediately evaluate the Gabd-Rimdan corridor. Bypassing Afghanistan via Iran under the TIR system provides a massive competitive advantage for Pakistani goods entering Uzbekistan and the broader Central Asian market.
2. Prepare for KPT & Port Qasim Congestion: The data is clear: Port Qasim and KPT will handle the lion’s share of mother vessels. With global shipping lanes stabilizing and raw material imports expected to rise alongside economic growth, terminal yards will remain crowded.
3. Digitize Your Port Operations: You can no longer afford to let your cargo sit at the port waiting on manual paperwork. You must leverage the Pakistan Single Window (PSW) to secure Green Channel clearance as rapidly as possible.

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Secure Your Logistics in a Volatile Market

Maalbardaar provides the visibility and speed to navigate this crisis. We combine pre-arrival digital customs clearance with instant access to a verified heavy transport fleet. Because our transport network is integrated, we provide transparent, algorithm-backed freight rates that protect you from wild spot-market price gouging, even during a historic fuel shock.

Register on Maalbardaar!

Take full control of your supply chain from freight, customs clearance, transportation, and more with Maalbardaar.

Don’t let delays or rising costs define your year: stay informed, stay proactive, and stay ahead with Maalbardaar!

📱 Join Our WhatsApp Channel for Daily Updates!

Hi, it’s Faiz from Maalbardaar.

Despite the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Gulf, Pakistan’s ports are operating at peak capacity. However, with thousands of containers stranded due to the Hormuz blockade, the government has been forced to step in with financial relief for exporters and the rapid activation of alternative land transit routes.

Here are the critical updates from this week and how they impact your logistics right now.

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The Current Situation: The Strait of Hormuz Remains Closed

Despite a brief attempt to reopen the waterway over the weekend of April 18, the Strait of Hormuz is currently under a complete “dual blockade.” The United States is maintaining its naval blockade on Iranian ports, and in response, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has explicitly forbidden passage and reinstated its closure of the Gulf to commercial traffic.

The Latest Developments on the Water:

• Ship Seizures: On Wednesday, April 22, Iranian forces seized two commercial container ships (the MSC-Francesca and the Epaminondas) citing unpermitted operations.
• Active Hostilities: Shipping agencies, including the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), have reported direct attacks on vessels attempting the crossing, forcing multiple ships (including two Indian tankers) to abandon their journeys and U-turn.
• Zero Crossings: As of this past weekend, observed commercial transits have dropped to zero. Over 150 ships are anchored outside the strait, and an estimated 135 million barrels of oil are currently stranded inside the Persian Gulf.
• Mine Clearing: The U.S. military has confirmed it is actively hunting for and clearing sea mines deployed by Iran in the strait, a process the Pentagon estimates could take up to six months.

What This Means for Pakistan: The waterway is functionally closed. Standard ETAs for any inbound vessels from the Gulf are obsolete. With over 20,000 mariners and 2,000 ships stranded globally due to this specific chokepoint, supply chain managers must prepare for severe, indefinite delays and extreme volatility in both energy and ocean freight markets until diplomatic negotiations reach a breakthrough.

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Key Industry Updates

1. KPT Announces 25% to 50% Storage Waivers for Exporters

To address the massive backlog of Gulf-bound shipments trapped by maritime delays, the Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs has announced immediate storage charge waivers at Karachi Port Trust (KPT) terminals.

• The Relief: Exporters can avail a 50% waiver at KGTL (for March 1–20), a 50% waiver at KICT (March 1–10), and a 25% waiver at SAPT (March 11–31).
• Implication: This is a crucial lifeline to reduce the financial pressure on stranded export containers. Exporters must coordinate with their clearing agents immediately to apply these waivers and clear their pending consignments before the grace periods expire.

2. Pakistan Notifies Six New Land Routes for Transit Trade

With over 3,000 containers destined for Iran currently stuck at Karachi Port due to the maritime blockade, the Ministry of Commerce has officially issued the “Transit of Goods through Territory of Pakistan Order 2026.” The government has formally designated six new land routes (including Karachi/Port Qasim to Taftan and Gabd) to move these goods via cross-stuffing.

• Implication: The activation of these land routes provides a critical release valve for the port. Traders with cargo destined for the Iranian and broader regional borders now have a legally recognized, secure framework to bypass the sea blockade.

3. EU-Pakistan Business Forum (April 28-29, 2026)

On the macroeconomic front, the High-Level European Union-Pakistan Business Forum is taking place in Islamabad this week.

• The Goal: The EU is Pakistan’s second-largest trading partner (accounting for 15.3% of total trade in 2023, worth €11.87 billion). The focus of this week’s summit is to shift Pakistan’s export dependency away from just textiles and apparel.
• New Sectors: The government and the EU are establishing frameworks to boost investments in agribusiness, digital innovations, green logistics, and renewable energy.

4. Massive Fuel Price Hike

The government just announced another massive fuel price hike, raising both diesel and petrol by Rs 26.77 per litre. With diesel now sitting at Rs 380.19, supply chain costs are taking another heavy hit this week. The Petroleum Ministry has cited rising global oil prices and regional tensions as the primary drivers.

• Implication: For Pakistani importers and exporters, this means external logistics costs are going to spike immediately.

5. ADB Growth Forecast

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) released its latest April 2026 outlook, officially forecasting Pakistan’s GDP growth at 3.5% for the year, signaling that the broader economy is showing resilience despite external shocks.

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What This Means For Importers & Exporters: The Strategic Pivot

With vessels queuing at the anchorage and terminal yards packed with stranded transit cargo, agility is your only defense against delays. Here is your playbook for this week:

1. Claim Your Export Waivers Immediately: If you have export containers that were grounded and delayed at KGTL, KICT, or SAPT during March, you need to initiate the waiver process today. Terminal operators are under pressure to clear the yards, and you do not want to miss this financial relief.
2. Prepare for Berthing Delays: Because the ports are handling over 170,000 tons of cargo daily, the wait times for mother vessels to secure a berth are increasing. You must use live satellite tracking to monitor your inbound ships rather than relying on standard ETA schedules.
3. Digitize Your Customs Clearance: The terminals cannot accommodate slow paperwork right now. To ensure your cargo does not get buried behind the 3,000 stranded transit containers, your Goods Declaration (GD) must be filed electronically via the Pakistan Single Window (PSW) before your ship even docks.

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Secure Your Logistics in a Volatile Market

Maalbardaar provides the visibility and speed to navigate this crisis. We combine pre-arrival digital customs clearance with instant access to a verified heavy transport fleet. Because our transport network is integrated, we provide transparent, algorithm-backed freight rates that protect you from wild spot-market price gouging, even during a historic fuel shock.

Register on Maalbardaar!

Take full control of your supply chain from freight, customs clearance, transportation, and more. 👉 Join Maalbardaar Today!

Stay Updated

Don’t let delays or rising costs define your year: stay informed, stay proactive, and stay ahead with Maalbardaar! 📱 Join Our WhatsApp Channel for Daily Updates!