Following the imposition of 200 per cent duty by India on all items exported from Pakistan, the All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA) has recommended a similar duty on all products originated in or exported from India. APTMA asked for a 200 per cent duty on all imports from India whether they be duty paid or imported through a duty-free scheme.

This step is important as after the Indian elections, India will reduce the duties to normal again. The situation will not be a tangible one for Pakistan if they do not impose reciprocal duty right now, APTMA says. APTMA noted the balance of trade between the two countries was highly skewed in the favour of India, saying that the imposition of duty on Indian imports would help reduce the trade deficit in the short run.