Why SROs Seem Quite the Brainteaser for Pakistan’s External Sector (P & R Vol.2 Issue 2)

The philosophy of the Statutory Regulatory Orders (SROs) has become deeply entrenched in Pakistan’s trade sector because of the legislative powers delegated by Cabinet through laws. Ideally, the government limits the use of SROs to framing rules and procedures for implementing a law. SROs are introduced by the procedures necessary to complete a process, and an administrative body prepares them to ensure that the law and regulations apply fairly to all parties. The Ministry of Commerce regulates the imports and exports of goods in Pakistan. Under section 3 of the Imports and Exports (Control) Act, 1950, the Government may prohibit, restrict, or control imports and exports. The Commerce Ministry regulates this through Import Policy Orders and Export Policy Orders, amending them from time to time through notifications / Statutory Regulatory Orders (SROs). It is important to note that unless the Commerce Ministry so notifies it, importing is not allowed.