India Bans All Imports From Pakistan

India has officially banned all imports from Pakistan, effective immediately, in response to the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists. The Indian government cites national security and public policy concerns as the rationale behind this decision. The ban encompasses both direct and indirect imports, including goods transiting through third countries, and has been formalized through an amendment to the Foreign Trade Policy 2023 by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) .

This move is part of a series of retaliatory measures by India following the April 22 attack, which India attributes to Pakistan-based militants. Other actions include the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, closure of the Wagah-Attari border crossing, cancellation of Pakistani visas, and the expulsion of Pakistani diplomats .

While official trade between the two countries has been minimal—India imported only $0.42 million worth of goods from Pakistan between April 2024 and January 2025—the ban is expected to impact Pakistan's export sectors, particularly textiles, cement, and agricultural products . Additionally, informal trade channels, which have historically been significant, may also be disrupted .

The situation remains tense, with both nations implementing reciprocal measures, including airspace closures and diplomatic expulsions. The international community has expressed concern over the escalating tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.

India's decision to ban all imports from Pakistan in May 2025 was a direct response to escalating tensions following a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. This move has significant political and economic implications and has drawn varied reactions domestically and internationally.

🇮🇳 Reason for the Ban: The Pahalgam Terror Attack

On April 22, 2025, a terrorist attack in Pahalgam resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, including tourists and a local resident. The militant group The Resistance Front, linked to the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility. India attributed the attack to cross-border terrorism originating from Pakistan. In response, India took several measures:

• Suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty.

• Closure of the Wagah-Attari border crossing.

• Expulsion of Pakistani diplomats and military advisors.

• Mandating Pakistani nationals with SAARC visas to leave India within 48 hours.

• Closure of Indian airspace to Pakistani airlines.

These actions were part of a broader strategy to pressure Pakistan to cease support for cross-border terrorism.

📉 Economic Impact on Pakistan

Although formal trade between India and Pakistan had been largely suspended since 2019, the complete import ban exacerbated existing economic challenges in Pakistan. Notably, Pakistan relies on India for 30–40% of its pharmaceutical raw materials and finished products. The sudden halt in imports led to concerns over shortages of essential medicines, including anti-cancer therapies and vaccines. In response, Pakistani health authorities initiated emergency measures to secure alternative supplies from countries like China and Russia.

🕒 Timeline of Key Events

• April 22, 2025: Terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.

• April 23, 2025: India announces suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and closure of the Wagah-Attari border.

• April 24, 2025: Pakistan's National Security Committee condemns India's actions and warns of reciprocal measures.

• April 30, 2025: India closes its airspace to Pakistani airlines.

• May 2, 2025: India formally bans all imports from Pakistan.The New Indian Express+1The Australian+1Daily Pakistan English News

Pakistan's Reaction

Pakistan denied involvement in the Pahalgam attack and criticized India's unilateral actions. The National Security Committee labeled India's measures as politically motivated and warned that any attempt to divert water under the Indus Waters Treaty would be considered an act of war. Pakistan also closed the Wagah border crossing and suspended trade relations with India.The Guardian+2Daily Pakistan English News+2Reuters+2ThePrint

🌐 International Responses

• United States: Secretary of State Marco Rubio engaged with leaders from both countries, urging de-escalation and offering mediation.

• United Nations: The UN Secretary-General expressed concern over the rising tensions and called for restraint.

• China: Issued a neutral statement, reflecting its strategic interests in both countries.

• Gulf Nations: Countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia condemned the Pahalgam attack and emphasized the importance of