India Bans Imports from Pakistan Amid Rising Tensions

On May 3, India's Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) issued a notice announcing an immediate ban on the import of goods originating from or transiting through Pakistan.

The move comes in the wake of a deadly shooting incident in India-administered Kashmir on April 22, which resulted in significant casualties. In response, Indian authorities accused Pakistan of supporting "cross-border terrorism" and introduced a series of retaliatory measures, including suspending the Indus Waters Treaty to cut off Pakistan's access to water resources. Pakistan has strongly denied any involvement in the incident and has implemented reciprocal countermeasures, such as closing its airspace to Indian carriers and halting all trade with India.

Later on May 3, India's Directorate General of Shipping issued a separate directive prohibiting any vessel flying the Pakistani flag from docking at Indian ports. The order cites the need to safeguard India's assets, cargo, and port infrastructure, stating it serves the public interest and the broader interests of Indian shipping.

In a related move, the India Post also announced the suspension of all inbound and outbound mail and parcel services with Pakistan, including both air and land transport channels.