The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) recently issued a notification on December 6, 2024, proposing amendments to the Baggage Rules. However, this led to a misinterpretation on various TV channels and social media platforms that the personal baggage limit had been set at $1200.
The FBR clarified that the notification actually referred to the term “commercial quantity” as defined in the Baggage Rules 2006. According to this definition, goods that appear to be for commercial purposes or financial gain will have a limit of $1200. The proposed amendment aimed to prevent the misuse of baggage facilities.
It’s essential to note that, as stated in the notification, the $1200 limit does not apply to items for “personal use or gifts” for travelers. The FBR denied circulating reports that customs would seize personal items worth over $1200.
Due to the widespread misinterpretation of the notification, especially on social media, the FBR decided to withdraw the draft notification to prevent further confusion.