PIBF hails transit trade policy with Iran, urges swift launch of ITI, freight corridor

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 3rd May, 2026) The Pakistan International business Forum (PIBF) has welcomed the government’s decision to facilitate transit trade with Iran under the “Transit of Goods through Territory of Pakistan Order 2026,” calling it a landmark move to boost regional connectivity and economic integration.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the PIBF said that the new framework allowing goods from third countries to transit through Pakistan to Iran via Gwadar, Karachi, Port Qasim and Taftan would significantly ease logistical bottlenecks, enhance supply chain efficiency and strengthen Pakistan’s position as a key regional trade hub linking South Asia, the middle East and Central Asia.

The forum noted that the initiative comes at a critical time when regional connectivity is gaining momentum. It highlighted the agreement among Pakistan, Iran, and Türkiye to revive the Islamabad–Tehran–Istanbul (ITI) freight train, a strategic corridor spanning over 6,500 kilometers connecting South Asia with Europe.

While appreciating the development, PIBF stressed that work on the ITI freight train should be initiated immediately on a priority basis, ensuring continuity and removal of past logistical and infrastructure challenges. It said timely execution of the project would provide exporters with a faster, cost-effective, and reliable trade route.

The forum also underscored the need to expedite the long-delayed Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline project, terming it vital for addressing Pakistan’s energy needs and strengthening bilateral economic ties.

The PIBF emphasized that enhanced transit trade, rail connectivity and energy cooperation together form a comprehensive roadmap for deepening Pakistan-Iran relations and unlocking new economic opportunities in the region.

Commenting on the development, PIBF President Dr. Mushtaq Mangat said the initiative is highly strategic and timely, urging Pakistan to capitalize on its geographic advantage by strengthening connectivity with neighboring countries.

The PIBF Secretary General Muhammad Ejaz Tanveer said improved connectivity through Iran would open new avenues for accessing Central Asian and European markets, adding that swift operationalization of regional projects like the ITI train would boost exports and reinforce Pakistan’s role in global supply chains.

The forum expressed confidence that consistent policy support and timely implementation of such initiatives would help Pakistan emerge as a leading regional trade and transit hub.