The Federal Board of Revenue has revised the Import General Manifest (IGM) format, making it mandatory for importers to provide their National Tax Number (NTN) or Foreign Tax Number (FTN) when submitting import cargo declarations.
The new requirement is aimed at improving trade data accuracy, strengthening cargo traceability, and enhancing transparency in Pakistan’s import documentation system.
According to the revised rules, all importers will be required to mention their NTN or FTN at the time of filing import declarations. However, authorities have provided flexibility for small parcel recipients and one-time importers who do not possess an NTN or FTN.
In such cases, a valid CNIC or passport number can be used as an alternative identifier to complete the declaration process.
Officials said the move is designed to improve monitoring of trade flows, reduce documentation gaps, and support more effective customs and tax administration without creating unnecessary hurdles for occasional importers.
The updated regulations have been issued under SRO 918(I)/2026 and will come into force on August 15, 2026.
The latest amendment forms part of broader efforts by customs authorities to modernize trade documentation procedures, improve compliance, and strengthen oversight of import-related transactions.
