The interim government has revised the baggage rules to restrict gold imports by travelers to once annually, aiming to curb repeated duty-paid imports and prevent smuggling. The National Board of Revenue (NBR) issued the new directive on Tuesday, June 3.
Under the updated rules, a traveler can now bring in up to 100 grams of gold jewelry or 200 grams of silver jewelry once per year without declaration or duty. Additionally, passengers may import up to 117 grams (10 tola) of gold bars or 234 grams (20 tola) of silver bars once a year by declaring and paying all applicable duties and taxes.
Any undeclared or excessive gold or silver will be subject to confiscation.
The change comes amid concerns that many individuals, including smugglers, have been exploiting the baggage rules to import gold more affordably than through commercial channels. While commercial gold imports have been permitted since 2018, uptake has been minimal—with only 145 kg imported in four years—compared to over 100 kg entering daily under baggage rules.
Previously, female passengers were allowed to bring in 100 grams of gold jewelry duty-free each time they traveled. The new policy aims to tighten oversight and support formal trade practices in the gold sector.
