CAIT supports India’s decision to halt trade with Pakistan

Trade body Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) urges Indian entrepreneurs to strengthen the domestic industry and embrace self-reliance

New Delhi, May 3, 2025

The Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has expressed its support for the Government of India’s decision to restrict the import and transit of products originating in or exported from Pakistan, effective immediately. The organization sees the move as a strong message against continued trade with a neighboring country amid rising tensions and concerns about cross-border hostility.

Mr. Praveen Khandelwal, Secretary General of CAIT, described the decision as a necessary step in safeguarding India’s national security. “This decision sends a clear message that trade cannot continue in an environment of persistent hostility and anti-India activities originating from across the border,” Khandelwal said. He emphasized that this move aligns with the national security interests of India, reflecting the sentiments of both the trading community and the broader public, who have long called for stronger action against economic ties with nations linked to terrorism.

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In support of the government’s policy, Mr. B C Bhartia, National President of CAIT, encouraged traders nationwide to comply with the new regulations, ensuring no Pakistani goods enter Indian markets through any direct or indirect means. He urged Indian traders to stand united in this policy and expressed confidence that the nation would benefit from this strategic shift.

While the decision is largely seen as aligning with national security interests, CAIT also highlighted an economic opportunity for Indian businesses. Bhartia encouraged Indian manufacturers and entrepreneurs to use this moment to bolster domestic production and replace goods previously imported from Pakistan. This, according to CAIT, could lead to the strengthening of indigenous industries, the creation of jobs, and the promotion of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India).

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The move follows a broader context of national security concerns and geopolitical dynamics but also brings into focus the ongoing debate over trade relationships and economic self-sufficiency. As the situation unfolds, the full impact of this policy on both trade dynamics and economic growth in India will be closely watched.