In a major step toward expanding regional trade connectivity, Pakistan Customs has successfully processed its first-ever TIR (Transports Internationaux Routiers) export consignment from the Export Processing Zone (EPZ), Karachi, to Kyrgyzstan, opening up a new overland trade corridor to Central Asia through Sost Dry Port and China.

The milestone shipment, valued at $59,314 and weighing 23.9 metric tons, consisted of assorted consumer and personal care products, including oil, tea, henna, herbs, cream, and soap.

The cargo was exported by Hemani Group under the internationally recognised TIR system, Gwadar Pro reported on Thursday.

Officials from Pakistan Customs said in a statement that the consignment was processed entirely through the Pakistan Single Window (PSW) system, marking another advancement in the country’s customs digitisation drive.

The Export Processing Zone was activated as a TIR station for the first time, enabling exporters based in the zone to dispatch goods directly under the TIR framework.

All required Electronic Pre-Declarations (EPD) were completed in advance to ensure seamless border movement and reduce delays during transit.

The TIR system allows sealed cargo to move across multiple countries with minimal customs intervention, significantly lowering transport time and logistics costs.

The latest breakthrough follows another important development last week, when Pakistan marked a milestone in regional trade integration as the first-ever shipment from Kyrgyzstan successfully arrived at Sost Dry Port via China.

Trade officials said the successful inbound movement demonstrated the viability of the emerging Pakistan-China-Central Asia logistics corridor in both directions.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP) — Pak-China