NEW DELHI — On May 3, 2025, India has imposed an immediate ban on all imports originating from or transiting through Pakistan, as well as barred Pakistani ships from docking at Indian ports. This move comes in response to escalating tensions following a deadly attack in the disputed Kashmir region, where suspected militants killed at least 26 tourists in Pahalgam.

The Directorate General of Foreign Trade announced the import ban, stating it was enacted “in the interest of national security and public policy.” Concurrently, the Directorate General of Shipping issued an order preventing Pakistani-flagged ships from visiting Indian ports and barring Indian-flagged ships from docking in Pakistan. The directive emphasized that the measure aims to “ensure safety of Indian assets, cargo, and connected infrastructure.”

The Pahalgam attack, which occurred on April 22, targeted a mountain tourist destination in the Kashmir valley. India has accused Pakistan of involvement in the assault, a claim Islamabad denies. In retaliation, Pakistan has halted all border trade, closed its airspace to Indian carriers, and expelled Indian diplomats. Additionally, Pakistan has warned that any attempt by India to disrupt river water flows covered under the longstanding Indus Waters Treaty would be considered an act of war.

Trade between India and Pakistan has significantly declined in recent years, and these latest measures mark a further deterioration in relations between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. The international community has expressed concern over the escalating tensions and urged both countries to engage in dialogue to resolve their differences peacefully

Source; Reuters