Jameel Qasim
Gwadar: Local traders have raised serious concerns over increasing difficulties in conducting legal trade at the Pakistan-Iran Gabd 250 border. They allege that the Pakistan Coast Guards demand PKR 300,000 per trailer bribes at multiple checkpoints, despite traders already paying PKR 1.3 million per truck in daily customs duties.
According to traders, approximately 40 to 50 trailers cross the border daily, transporting large quantities of fruits and other goods. They assert that their trade activities contribute PKR 400–500 million in daily tax revenue to the national treasury. However, despite fulfilling all legal requirements, they continue encountering obstructions at checkpoints.
Traders further claim that even after obtaining Goods Declaration (GD) clearance, their vehicles are subjected to unnecessary delays. Meanwhile, trailers lacking proper documentation allegedly pass through easily after paying bribes. These delays pose a significant risk to perishable goods, causing millions in losses. A single container of fruit, valued at over PKR 10 million, can suffer severe damage due to prolonged waiting times.
In light of these challenges, local traders have urged the government and relevant authorities to intervene and eliminate obstacles to legal trade. They warn that if the current situation persists, they will be left with no option but to suspend operations and stage protests—an outcome that could not only impact their businesses but also have broader economic repercussions.
TGP Team
