The Ministries of Commerce of Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to introduce the Temporary Admission Document (TAD) mechanism, effective from May 1, 2024. This initiative aims to streamline and regulate the movement of cargo vehicles engaged in bilateral trade between the two countries, enhancing efficiency and oversight.
According to official documents, applications for TADs for Afghanistan-registered vehicles will be accepted on all working days at window No. 5 of the Pakistan Embassy in Kabul and the Pakistan Consulate in Kandahar from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM daily. For Pakistani-registered vehicles, applications will be collected at the Afghanistan Consulate Generals in Quetta and Peshawar from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM on working days.
Application forms will be available at the embassies and consulates and can also be freely downloaded from their respective websites. The TADs will be issued within five working days of receiving the applications, ensuring a quick turnaround.
The TAD will be valid from the date of issuance, and separate documents will be issued for the vehicle, driver, and cleaner. A fee will be charged only for the vehicle’s TAD, while the passes for drivers and cleaners will be free of cost. Each TAD is valid for one vehicle and is non-transferable. The document, issued for a fee of USD 100, will be valid for six months and allow for multiple journeys.
The Federal Board of Revenue has notified about the TAD mechanism via SRO 702(I)/2024 dated May 23, 2024. This notification marks a significant step towards formalizing the trade procedures and ensuring that all cargo vehicles comply with the new regulations.
The Directorate General of Transit Trade in Peshawar and Quetta will share a list of approved transport operators with the Afghanistan Consulate Generals in Quetta and Peshawar. Transport operators and owners of Pakistani-registered vehicles are encouraged to apply for registration at the Directorate General of Transit Trade to operate under the TAD mechanism. Help desks have been established to assist transport operators with the registration process and to provide necessary guidance.
From June 15, 2024, onwards, no vehicle will be allowed to carry bilateral trade between the two countries without a TAD. This deadline emphasizes the importance of timely compliance to avoid any disruptions in trade activities.
The first vehicle from Afghanistan carrying a consignment of coal crossed into Pakistan at the Kharlachi Border Terminal on June 2, 2024, formally inaugurating the TAD mechanism on the ground. This event marked a significant milestone in the implementation of the new trade regulation system. Additionally, three vehicles with TADs crossed through Torkham on June 3, 2024, further solidifying the operational status of the TAD mechanism.
The introduction of the TAD system is expected to bring several benefits to the bilateral trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan. It will streamline the documentation process, reduce delays at border crossings, and enhance the overall efficiency of cargo movement. By implementing this mechanism, both countries aim to foster a more organized and regulated trade environment, which will ultimately benefit the economies of both nations.
Moreover, the TAD system will provide a robust framework for monitoring and managing trade activities, ensuring that all cargo vehicles adhere to the set guidelines. This will help in reducing instances of smuggling and other illegal activities, thereby promoting fair and legal trade practices.
