Gilgit-Baltistan launches digital portal for China trade exemptions

GILGIT: (Web Desk) – An online trade facilitation portal has been formally launched in Gilgit by the federal government to streamline the issuance of tax exemption certificates worth Rs 4 billion for Pak-China border trade in Gilgit-Baltistan. The initiative was inaugurated by Caretaker Chief Minister Gilgit-Baltistan Justice (retd) Yar Muhammad, who activated the system through a digital launch button. The platform is designed to provide a transparent, structured, and merit-based process for registered traders seeking tax exemptions on goods imported from China.

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During the ceremony, the Secretary for Commerce and Industries briefed the Chief Minister on the trade framework, registration procedures, tax exemption mechanisms, and inter-departmental coordination.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister described the portal as the region’s first modern digital trade system, aimed at ensuring fairness, transparency, and equal opportunity for traders, youth, and women. He emphasized that the initiative would not only facilitate businesses but also strengthen the regional economy, create employment opportunities, and expand trade activity in Gilgit-Baltistan.

He further directed relevant departments to ensure effective implementation so that the public fully benefits from this federal initiative, while maintaining strict transparency standards. Officials added that the system is integrated with NADRA and SECP databases to prevent misuse, and that quotas have been distributed among districts based on population, with special allocations for youth and women.