Islamabad strengthens trade links with Tehran

ISLAMABAD: In a move aimed at strengthening border trade management and improving documentation of cross-border flows, Pakistan has established a new customs station at Jeerak in Panjgur district, Balochistan, along the Pakistan-Iran border.

The facility is expected to facilitate passenger movement, regulate personal baggage, and channel informal trade into the formal economy.

The decision comes as part of ongoing efforts to formalise cross-border movement in Balochistan, where informal trade and undocumented travel have historically remained high due to the porous border and limited infrastructure.

To implement the decision, the Federal Board of Revenue has issued Customs Notification SRO 530 of 2026 to operationalise the new station, which is part of broader efforts to strengthen border management and bring greater oversight to cross-border movement.

Jeerak station to regulate cross-border passengers and curb smuggling

Jeerak station to regulate cross-border passengers and curb smuggling

Customs officials say that expanding customs coverage at key entry points will improve monitoring, promote documented trade flows, and provide a regulated channel for passengers and personal baggage. The step also aligns with the government’s push to curb smuggling along the Pak-Iran border while facilitating legitimate trade.

Jeerak has been designated as the fifth official crossing for trade and transit between Pakistan and Iran, reflecting rising demand for legal cargo handling and passenger facilitation. The development is expected to reduce congestion at existing routes,........

© Dawn Business