No Direct Benefit for Indian Trade with Iran via Pakistan Under Pakistan’s New Transit Order 2026

Pakistan’s Transit of Goods through Territory of Pakistan Order 2026 allows goods originating from third countries to transit through Pakistani territory and land routes for delivery to Iran. However, Indian-origin goods are highly unlikely to benefit from this new framework.

The order specifically facilitates transit from third countries to Iran using routes like Gwadar, Port Qasim, Ormara, Pasni, Taftan, Quetta, and Khuzdar. It does not mention or open any pathway for Indian cargo.

India and Pakistan do not have active bilateral transit agreements. Trade between the two countries remains severely restricted, with India maintaining a virtual ban on most Pakistani goods and no road-based transit facilities granted in either direction.

Historically, India has avoided routing trade through Pakistan due to geopolitical rivalries. Instead, India has invested heavily in alternative routes, particularly the Chabahar Port in Iran, developed in partnership with Iran and Afghanistan to bypass Pakistan and connect directly to Central Asia.

Amid the current regional tensions, including disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, India continues to rely on sea routes, Chabahar, and other corridors such as the International North-South Transport Corridor. There are no indications that Pakistan’s new order includes or welcomes Indian shipments.