Pakistan extends export scheme import window to 18 months

Pakistan has expanded the utilization period under the Export Facilitation Scheme from nine months to 18 months, giving exporters more time to use duty-free imported inputs. The government says the change is meant to cut compliance pressure, lower costs and improve export competitiveness, especially for smaller businesses.

Minister of State for Finance and Railways Bilal Azhar Kayani said exporters will continue to receive zero-duty and tax-free import access as long as the imported goods are used within the revised period. A further extension of up to six months may be granted in selected cases through a designated committee.

The updated framework also introduces a six-monthly reconciliation process to reduce misuse, allows automatic replenishment of security deposits based on goods consumed and exported, and gives scheme users a formal right of appeal before the chief collector against regulatory decisions. Officials say the package is designed to support export-led growth and improve ease of doing business.