An NSTN Perspective

Recent disruptions to global supply chains have highlighted the importance of diversified logistics corridors. For Iran, supply chain resilience depends on having multiple international gateways that reduce reliance on any single port or transport route. Pakistan is now well positioned to become one of those strategic gateways.

The Government of Pakistan has already established the legal foundation through SRO 691(I)/2026 issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Customs General Order (CGO) No. 05 of 2026 issued by the Federal Board of Revenue. Together, these measures provide a structured framework for the movement of third-country transit cargo from Karachi Port, Port Qasim, and Gwadar Port to Iran through the Taftan and Gabd (Rimdan) border crossings under customs control.

CGO No. 05 further introduces clear operating procedures for both TIR and non-TIR cargo, designated transit routes, customs supervision, and cross-stuffing facilities, making the corridor commercially viable for international logistics operators.

These reforms transform Pakistan from a destination market into a regional transit hub connecting global shipping services with Iran. Cargo arriving from East Asia, Europe, Africa, or the Americas can now move efficiently through Pakistan to Iranian markets using established legal procedures and modern customs controls.

However, legislation alone will not create a successful corridor. The true measure of success will be regular cargo movement, efficient border operations, digital customs processing, reliable transport services, and close cooperation between government agencies and the private sector.

At North South Transport Network (NSTN), we believe these reforms represent a historic opportunity to strengthen regional connectivity. NSTN is committed to providing integrated logistics solutions, including port handling, customs clearance, TIR and non-TIR transport, cross-border trucking, cargo tracking, and end-to-end delivery between Pakistan and Iran.

Pakistan now possesses the ports, the road network, and—most importantly—the legal framework to serve as a strategic logistics partner for Iran. The focus must now shift from policy to implementation.

The corridors have been notified. The infrastructure exists. The time has come to convert this vision into sustainable trade flows that benefit Pakistan, Iran, and the wider ECO region.