The designation of “Rimdan” (Iran) as a TIR-enabled international border crossing by the International Road Transport Union on 30 March 2026 marks a major milestone for regional connectivity and transit trade. This development establishes the Gabd (Pakistan) – Rimdan (Iran) corridor as a fully operational TIR route, unlocking new opportunities for Pakistan, Iran, and the Central Asian Republics (CARs).
This strategic progress comes at a critical time when regional supply chains are under pressure due to ongoing geopolitical disruptions. Recognizing the urgency, the IRT Chamber proactively engaged with senior government authorities through a formal representation letter Ref:- IRTCoP/(TIR).Gadd-Rimdan-04/2026 dated 27 March 2026, addressed to honorable Federal Secretary Commerce, highlighting Gabd-Rimdan as a viable and immediate alternative corridor to sustain the flow of essential commodities and maintain regional trade continuity.
Acting swiftly on this intervention, the Member Customs (Operations), Federal Board of Revenue convened a high-level consultative session on 30 March 2026, bringing together IRT Chamber, key stakeholders including relevant ministries, customs field formations, and the Directorate of Transit Trade.
During the session, Rana Asif Khan, President IRT Chamber, emphasized that Pakistan had already designated Gabd (Choki-250) as a TIR-enabled border crossing, fully integrated into the IRU’s Electronic Pre-Declaration (EPD) system. However, the Iranian side had yet to formally notify Rimdan as a corresponding TIR border.
Demonstrating proactive leadership, the IRT Chamber had already initiated direct engagement with the Directorate General of Transit at Islamic Republic of Iran Customs Administration a day prior, advocating for the immediate designation of Rimdan and its integration into the IRU-EPD system.
As a direct outcome of these coordinated efforts, the Iranian authorities confirmed—through IRU channels on the same day—the designation of Rimdan as a TIR-enabled International Border Crossing Point (IBCP).
Transformational Impact of Gabd–Rimdan Corridor
The operationalization of the Gabd–Rimdan TIR corridor represents a game-changing development with far-reaching benefits:
1. Strategic Trade Diversification for Pakistan
- Reduces reliance on the Afghan transit corridor
- Provides a secure and reliable alternative route for international transit
- Strengthens Pakistan’s position as a regional logistics hub
2. Enhanced Bilateral Trade with Iran
- Facilitates seamless cross-border movement under TIR
- Promotes formal trade channels and reduces transaction time and cost
- Strengthens economic cooperation between Pakistan and Iran
3. Gateway to Central Asian Republics (CARs)
- Opens a shorter and more stable access route to CARs via Iran
- Supports multimodal connectivity linking seaports, land borders, and hinterlands
- Enhances regional integration and connectivity under international transit frameworks
4. Supply Chain Resilience in Crisis Conditions
- Ensures continuity of essential goods movement during geopolitical disruptions
- Provides an operational corridor for humanitarian and commercial cargo
IRT Chamber – Driving Regional Connectivity
The IRT Chamber has played a pivotal and catalytic role in this historic achievement by:
- Initiating timely policy advocacy at the highest levels
- Engaging directly with Iranian customs authorities
- Facilitating coordination between national and international stakeholders
- Accelerating IRU-level recognition and system integration
This milestone reflects IRT Chamber’s commitment to reshaping Pakistan’s logistics landscape and positioning the country as a key transit gateway connecting South Asia, the Middle East, and Central Asia.
