FBR seeks ban on items worth over $1200 for incoming passengers

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has proposed changes to the Baggage Rules 2006 introducing stricter limits on goods brought by passengers from abroad.

Items exceeding $1200 in value will now be classified as commercial trade goods, subject to strict regulations.

Under the new guidelines, passengers can only bring one mobile phone for personal use. Any additional phones will be confiscated. 

The FBR aims to stop the misuse of baggage allowances for importing goods for resale or commercial purposes.

The proposed rules also state that goods valued above $1,200 cannot be cleared without payment of duties, taxes, and penalties. 

The changes are designed to reduce smuggling and ensure that travellers comply with trade regulations.

The FBR has sought feedback from stakeholders on these amendments, allowing a seven-day window for objections and suggestions. 

Any feedback submitted after this period will not be considered. If no major revisions are made, the rules will take effect via a gazette notification.

The stricter measures are expected to impact travellers who previously imported goods in large quantities for commercial use. 

The regulations aim to enhance transparency and control over items entering the country, aligning with broader efforts to curb illegal trade.