Industry Insight
Client Advisory: Trade and Transportation Disruptions Between India and Pakistan
Recent geopolitical developments have significantly impacted cargo movement between India and Pakistan. In response to the evolving situation, both nations have introduced new restrictions affecting ocean and air freight services.
- Newsroom
- Article
- May 7, 2025
- By Crane Worldwide Logistics
Recent geopolitical developments have significantly impacted cargo movement between India and Pakistan. In response to the evolving situation, both nations have introduced new restrictions affecting ocean and air freight services.
Ocean Freight Update
- All trade (imports and exports) to/from Pakistan is currentlyrestricted.
- Pakistan-flagged vesselsareprohibitedfrom transiting Indian territorial waters.
- Vessels carryingPakistan-origin cargothat departed before the ban are not permitted toberth at Indian portsuntil that cargo is discharged elsewhere.
- Pakistan-origin containers,includingempty, transshipment, and in-transit units,are nowbanned.
- Pakistan-owned or managed airlinesare no longer permitted to use Indian airspace.
- Imports, transits, and exports of Indian-origin goods,including those routed via third countries, are nowprohibited.
- All exports to India transiting through Pakistan are also restricted.
- Ocean carriers are activelyrerouting servicesto minimize supply chain disruption. Key alternate transshipment hubs includeDubai, Colombo, and Singapore.
- CMA CGMhas suspended calls toKarachiuntil further notice.
- MSCis routing all Pakistan cargo viaColombo.Stranded Pakistan cargo in Indian ports (Mundra and Nhava Sheva) may still be picked up, butno new Pakistan-bound cargowill be accepted.
Air Freight Update
- Most airlines arererouting flights to avoid Pakistan's airspace.
- Air Indiahas temporarily suspended flights on itsAmritsar-GatwickandDelhi-Tel Avivroutes.
- Airports near the Pakistan borderin India have beenclosed since May 6as a precautionary measure.
- No major international carriers have reported service disruptions, but we continue to monitor for updates.
What This Means For You
Our team closely monitors the situation and works directly with carriers and local agents to ensure continuity wherever possible. If your cargo is potentially impacted, your Crane Worldwide representative will reach out directly to discuss rerouting or alternative solutions.
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