The National Assembly on Thursday passed the Pakistan Land Port Authority Bill 2025. The bill aims to make cross-border movement of goods and people faster and more efficient. It was moved by Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry on behalf of Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.
Once approved by the Senate and signed by President Asif Ali Zardari, the new authority will become a statutory body. It will coordinate with all relevant agencies at land border crossings. This move will make Pakistan the third South Asian country — after Bangladesh and India — to establish such a body.
PPP lawmaker Syed Naveed Qamar proposed several amendments during the session. He said his party had reviewed the bill in detail. After negotiations and committee discussions, Qamar presented 12 amendments, all of which were accepted and voted through by the House.
The bill creates a framework to regulate land ports, improve border security, and promote trade. It also focuses on preventing illegal immigration and smuggling by installing modern equipment. The authority will help implement Pakistan’s international trade commitments and improve port efficiency.
A 16-member governing council will oversee the authority’s work. Currently, no single body coordinates government agencies at land borders, causing delays. The new authority will fill this gap, modernize border trade systems, and strengthen Pakistan’s regional trade position.