Business Desk 
Dec 10, 2024
The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) on Tuesday proposed changes to the Baggage Rules that could restrict travellers from bringing goods worth more than $1,200 into Pakistan.
The changes are intended to limit the quantity of goods incoming passengers, including overseas Pakistanis, can bring into the country.
Currently, travellers can bring two cellular phones into Pakistan, although new recommendations suggest reducing this to only one phone. In that case, the value of commodities like laptops and watches could be determined by customs authorities to ensure whether it will not exceed from $1,200 set by the Pakistan government.
Any additional phone beyond the first one can be released on payment of duties and taxes payable, whereas excess quantity will be confiscated.
The proposed $1,200 limit applies to all items brought by passengers under the baggage facility. Goods exceeding this value will be confiscated. The term "commercial quantity" is defined as goods imported for trading or profit, with a value exceeding $1,200.
Previously, the Baggage Rules did not specify a value for commercial quantities. The FBR has shared the draft amendments with stakeholders but has not yet sought public feedback.
FBR officials stated that the rules could be improved if any major issues are identified, as they planned to gather feedback before finalising the amendments. These changes aim to streamline the process and ensure that travellers adhere to the new regulations.
