Pakistan updates export control lists to align with global non-proliferation rules
Pakistan’s foreign office announced on Friday the country has updated its national export control lists governing sensitive and dual-use technologies, requiring exporters to seek government licenses for items linked to nuclear, biological and missile-related applications.
The revised lists, notified under the Export Control Act, 2004, specify goods, materials, equipment and technologies that cannot be exported without prior approval from the Strategic Export Control Division (SECDIV), a specialized unit operating under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
“This revision was part of SECDIV’s regular review process, conducted in consultation with relevant ministries and departments, to ensure that Pakistan’s national controls remain up to date, effective and aligned with international standards,” the foreign office said in a notification.
Export control lists are used by governments worldwide to regulate trade in dual-use items — products and technologies that have legitimate civilian applications but could also be used for military or weapons-related purposes.
Such controls are designed to prevent proliferation while allowing lawful trade under licensing systems. Pakistan’s updated lists were published in the official Gazette through a statutory regulatory order dated October 13, 2025, and take immediate effect, the notification said.
“This notification underscores Pakistan’s resolve to further strengthen its export control regime and reaffirms its role as a responsible technology-holder state, firmly committed to the objectives of non-proliferation and the fulfilment of its international obligations,” the foreign office added.
The control lists were first issued in 2005 and have since been revised in 2011, 2015, 2016, 2018 and 2022, reflecting changes in technology, international rules and compliance requirements.
The latest revision brings Pakistan’s export rules into closer alignment with international non-proliferation regimes, including the Nuclear Suppliers Group, the Missile Technology Control Regime, and the Australia Group, all of which coordinate export controls among participating countries to limit the spread of weapons-related technologies.
