Banned Goods List for Foreign Trade Released by FBR

In a move to fortify trade integrity and clamp down on illicit practices, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has officially announced the list of goods prohibited for foreign trade for the upcoming tax year 2025. This decisive notification, issued under Section 15 of the Customs Act, 1969, underscores the FBR’s commitment to upholding legal and ethical international trade practices within Pakistan.

A Clear Line in the Sand: Prohibited Goods Defined

The FBR notification meticulously outlines six categories of goods now firmly on the prohibited list. These categories reflect a multi-pronged approach to combating illegal trade and safeguarding national interests:

1. Counterfeit Currency and Coins: A Strict No-Go The most fundamental prohibition targets the lifeblood of legitimate trade – currency. The FBR has explicitly banned counterfeit coins, forged currency notes, and any items designed to mimic genuine monetary instruments. This measure is crucial for maintaining the stability and trustworthiness of Pakistan’s financial system and preventing economic disruption caused by fake currency.
2. Obscene and Inappropriate Materials: Upholding Moral Standards Recognizing the need to protect societal values and moral standards, the FBR has prohibited the trade of obscene materials across all formats. This includes books, pamphlets, drawings, films, videos, and digital content. This broad ban reflects a commitment to prevent the influx and outflow of content deemed inappropriate and harmful to public morality.
3. Infringing Goods with Counterfeit Trademarks: Protecting Brand Integrity The FBR is taking a firm stance against counterfeit trademarks, prohibiting goods that illegally bear trademarks protected under Pakistan’s intellectual property laws. This includes violations defined by the Pakistan Penal Code and the Trade Marks Ordinance. This measure aims to protect legitimate businesses and consumers from the deceptive practices of counterfeiters and uphold brand integrity within the market.
4. Misleading Product Origin: Transparency and Fair Trade In a bid to ensure transparency and fair trade practices, the FBR has prohibited items manufactured outside Pakistan that deceptively carry a Pakistani name or trademark without clearly indicating their true origin. The notification mandates that the country of origin must be prominently displayed, using the same language and font size as the brand name itself. This ensures consumers are not misled about the source of products and promotes honest labeling practices.
5. Copyright-Infringing Products: Respecting Creative Rights The FBR is reinforcing the protection of creative works by prohibiting goods that infringe on copyrights, as defined under the Copyright Ordinance and related laws. This measure safeguards the rights of artists, creators, and intellectual property owners, discouraging the illegal duplication and distribution of copyrighted material.
6. Unauthorized Replicas and Imitations: Combating Design Theft Going beyond trademarks and copyrights, the FBR is also targeting unauthorized replicas and imitations of protected designs, patents, and layouts. Products that mimic these protected elements without the registered owner’s permission are strictly prohibited. This demonstrates a comprehensive approach to protecting intellectual property in its various forms and preventing design theft.

Consequences of Non-Compliance and Call to Action

The FBR has made it unequivocally clear that compliance with these regulations is non-negotiable. Customs officials are empowered under Section 179 of the Customs Act to adjudicate any infringements. This underscores the seriousness with which the FBR is treating these prohibitions and signals potential penalties for those who fail to adhere to the new guidelines.

The FBR strongly advises all traders and businesses involved in foreign trade to meticulously review the newly issued guidelines. Proactive consultation of the latest FBR regulations is crucial to ensure full compliance and to avoid potential penalties and legal repercussions.

Upholding Global Standards and Protecting National Interests

Through this notification, the FBR reiterates its unwavering commitment to regulating Pakistan’s foreign trade in accordance with international best practices. The prohibitions serve to safeguard intellectual property rights, maintain the integrity of trade channels, and protect public interests. By enforcing these regulations, the FBR aims to foster a trade environment that is both lawful and ethically sound, contributing to Pakistan’s economic stability and its standing in the global trade community.

Businesses are urged to take immediate note of these changes and adapt their practices accordingly to ensure a seamless and legally compliant trade operation within Pakistan.