In a sharp escalation of diplomatic and economic measures following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, India has imposed a series of restrictions targeting Pakistan. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has banned all Pakistani-flagged vessels from docking at Indian ports and prohibited Indian-flagged ships from visiting ports in Pakistan. The decision, implemented under Section 411 of the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958, is aimed at protecting Indian maritime assets, infrastructure, and national interests.
The order, which will remain in effect until further notice, also states that any request for exemption will be evaluated individually. Officials underscored the need to ensure the security and efficient operation of India’s mercantile fleet amid ongoing threats.
This move follows a series of retaliatory steps by India in response to Pakistan’s alleged support for cross-border terrorism, including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty, closure of the Integrated Check Post at Attari, and downsizing diplomatic staff at High Commissions.
Additionally, the government has enforced a blanket ban on the import—both direct and indirect—of all goods originating from or exported by Pakistan. A notification issued by the Ministry of Commerce on May 2 amended the Foreign Trade Policy (FTP) 2023 to enforce the embargo with immediate effect. The Wagah-Attari border crossing, the last remaining trade link between the two nations, has also been sealed.
Trade between the two countries had already been in decline since 2019, when India imposed a 200 percent duty on Pakistani goods in the wake of the Pulwama terror attack. Key imports from Pakistan previously included pharmaceuticals, fruits, and oilseeds.
