The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has completely banned bringing goods in commercial quantities on the pretext of personal use or gifts.
The bureau has issued a notification regarding an amendment to the Baggage Rules 2006 to curb misuse of the baggage scheme for financial gain.
Under the new amendments, items valued over $1,200 brought from abroad will now be considered commercial trade. Such goods will not be cleared, even if duty, taxes, or fines are paid, and will instead be confiscated.
In the case of mobile phones, passengers travelling to Pakistan will be allowed to bring only one mobile phone for personal use. Any additional phones will also be confiscated and will not be cleared under any circumstances.
The FBR emphasized that the new rules are intended to prevent individuals from importing commercial quantities of goods under the pretext of personal use or as gifts.
According to the FBR, suggestions, opinions or recommendations can be given within seven days on the draft regarding further amendments to the Baggage Rules 2006. However, opinions submitted after the deadline will not be considered.
The bureau says commercial quantities mean additional financial gain instead of personal use or gifts.
