The Pakistan Ship’s Agents Association (PSAA) has formally raised concerns regarding the newly issued International Transhipment Rules under SRO 517(I)/2026, announced on March 18 by the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).

In a letter addressed to the Secretary of Transit and Border Trade, the association acknowledged the government’s initiative to attract transhipment cargo amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. However, it highlighted several operational and regulatory issues that could hinder the effectiveness of the new framework.

The PSAA emphasised that shipping carriers should not be penalised for discrepancies in cargo manifests, as these are filed based on information provided by shippers. The association argued that responsibility for any inconsistencies should instead lie with bonded transporters and off-dock terminals, both of which operate under customs licensing and oversight.

Another key concern raised was the mandatory scanning of all containers moving to off-dock terminals. The association described this requirement as redundant and inconsistent with global practices at major transhipment hubs, noting that such cargo typically has no direct linkage with Pakistan’s domestic market.

Industry stakeholders fear that these additional requirements could increase operational costs and reduce Pakistan’s competitiveness as a regional transhipment hub, particularly at ports in Karachi.

The PSAA has urged authorities to review the rules and align them with international standards to ensure that Pakistan can fully capitalise on emerging opportunities in global maritime trade.