The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has announced major tax relief for imports entering Gilgit-Baltistan through the Sost Dry Port. Chinese goods imported for local consumption in the region will now be exempt from sales tax, income tax, and federal excise duty. The decision has taken effect immediately.
According to an official notification, the exemption applies only to specific goods listed by the FBR. These goods must be imported through the Customs Dry Port Sost. The purpose of the move is to support trade and reduce costs for consumers in Gilgit-Baltistan.
To qualify for the exemption, consignment-wise approval is mandatory. This authorization must be issued online through the Customs Computerized Clearance System. The approval will be granted by a notified authority of the Gilgit-Baltistan government. Importers must follow the prescribed digital format.
Customs officials will allow the tax exemption on a first-come, first-served basis. This facility will remain limited to an approved quota. Once the quota is exhausted, additional imports will face normal taxes. Goods exceeding the quota will be charged sales tax, income tax, and federal excise duty.
The Gilgit-Baltistan government has been directed to ensure strict local usage. All goods cleared under this facility must be consumed within the region. Any movement outside Gilgit-Baltistan will result in loss of the exemption.
In case of disruptions, the facility may be suspended. Protests or road blockades affecting customs operations can trigger this action. The Collector of Customs Gilgit-Baltistan will decide after consulting the regional government.
The Collector also has the authority to cancel tax relief in specific cases. This applies when misdeclaration is detected. Serious violations may lead to action under the Customs Act, 1969.
The Chief Collector of Customs (Enforcement) will monitor enforcement. Measures will be taken to prevent goods from leaving Gilgit-Baltistan illegally. The FBR will also review the listed Pakistan Customs Tariff codes regularly.
A special procedure will be introduced to track goods. This will help distinguish imports meant for Gilgit-Baltistan from those for the rest of Pakistan.
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All imports through Sost will remain subject to existing laws. These include the Imports a
