Pakistan’s ongoing tariff rationalisation drive has fundamentally altered the country’s import landscape, with duty-free imports climbing to $27 billion.
The surge reflects a targeted policy approach where concessions are primarily channeled toward manufacturing and export-oriented supply chains, rather than being distributed uniformly across all import categories.
This strategic realignment aims to bolster industrial competitiveness while managing the overall trade deficit.
The shift in import composition underscores the government’s focus on supporting sectors critical to export growth.
By reducing barriers for specific inputs, policymakers are attempting to lower production costs for manufacturers who compete in global markets.
This selective liberalisation contrasts with previous periods of blanket import restrictions, offering a more nuanced tool for economic management.