How are Pakistan’s imports from India growing again despite tensions?

What the report says

Pakistan’s imports from India have risen again despite official restrictions and continuing political tension, according to Al Jazeera, which reported from Islamabad. The article says the two neighbours effectively cut off most direct links after violence in Indian-administered Kashmir in April 2025, followed by retaliatory measures including Pakistan’s suspension of trade and closure of the Wagah border crossing. Even so, central bank data indicate that payments for Indian goods have climbed back toward earlier levels.

The State Bank of Pakistan data cited by Al Jazeera show that Pakistan imported $61.7m worth of goods from India from July to September 2025, a 69 percent increase from the same period a year earlier. Government trade figures placed the quarter’s imports at $62.6m. Much of this trade was concentrated in pharmaceuticals and related chemical inputs, especially vaccines, blood products and active pharmaceutical ingredients. Sources quoted in the report said India’s established drug industry, lower costs and geographic proximity make it difficult to replace some supplies quickly.

The report also says the trade ban has not fully stopped Indian-origin goods from reaching Pakistan, with some business figures suggesting they arrive via third countries, though the exact routes are not publicly verified. A Pakistani drug regulator official said imports from India would still be considered if needed in the national interest.

Beyond the trade numbers, Al Jazeera notes small signs of easing in relations, including prisoner returns and recent sports handshakes. It says a broader thaw remains uncertain, but the economic case for limited trade, especially in pharmaceuticals, may be pushing both sides toward cautious engagement.