• Hamza Shafqaat asserts provincial govt providing full support to traders
• Announces Iran border will soon operate on a passport-based system
QUETTA: The provincial government is providing all necessary support and facilities to the business community engaged in legal trade, import, and export, but illegal trade and smuggling remain major hurdles in prompting lawful business in the province.
Balochistan Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Muhammad Hamza Shafqaat made these remarks during a meeting with business leaders and office-bearers of the Quetta Chambers of Commerce and Industry (QCII) on Monday.
He disclosed that the government is making every effort to promote trade with Iran and, within a month or two, the Iran border will operate on a passport-based system, making travel without a valid passport impossible.
Mr Shafqaat said that entry into neighbouring Iran would soon require a passport instead of the current “Rahdari System,” and individuals with only a DC permit will no longer be allowed. Smuggling of items in shortage from the province or country will not be permitted, and the government will monitor the trade of Pakistani sugar in Balochistan.
He added that the province’s instability is not caused by unemployment.
Referring to recent terrorist attacks in Quetta and other areas, he said that during the January 31 attacks, nearly 400 individuals were involved, of whom 221 were killed and around 100 arrested.
Attackers in Noshki reportedly received financial aid through illegal poppy cultivation. Going forward, no one will be allowed to engage in illegal border trade or smuggling.
Mr Shafqaat added that children of individuals registered with the Workers Welfare Board will receive free education at Pakistan’s top institutions, while those seeking overseas employment will be offered up to seven million rupees in government support.
He urged the Chamber to form a committee to directly discuss issues and challenges with the government.
On the occasion, the QCII representatives emphasised that Balochistan is the economic gateway of the region, but issues like unfair tax valuation, delays in import and export of goods, and other challenges are obstructing legal trade.
They demanded an extension of the Export Import Facilitation (EIF) period by six months, permission to mutate up to 10 per cent of reliable scrap, longer operating hours at the Taftan border, and unrestricted movement of goods at the Bazarcheh Business Terminal, noting that these measures would help promote lawful business.
The additional chief secretary said that the government would seriously consider proposals submitted by the Chamber of Commerce, including extending border hours. Relevant departments will be engaged to facilitate implementation.
He also announced that the provincial government would soon provide free passports to residents of border districts and financial assistance under the Benazir Income Support Programme.
Published in Dawn, February 17th, 2026