How to Start a Business Selling Imported Items in Pakistan (2025 Guide)

Starting a business selling imported items in Pakistan is a promising opportunity in 2025. With rising consumer demand for international quality goods like skincare, supplements, electronics, and fashion accessories, now is the perfect time to tap into the import business. This guide walks you through the legal, financial, and logistical steps needed to build a successful import-based business in Pakistan.

1. Identify Your Niche Before jumping into the import market, determine which category of products you want to focus on. Some profitable niches include:

• Skincare and cosmetics
• Health supplements
• Tech gadgets
• Fashion & accessories
• Baby care products
• Kitchen & home organization items

Pick a niche that aligns with your interest, has strong demand, and low competition.

2. Conduct Market Research Study current trends in Pakistan. Use tools like Google Trends, Daraz bestsellers, or social media insights to identify high-demand imported products. Look for:

• Price points
• Target customer segments
• Competitor analysis

3. Source Reliable Suppliers Use trusted international platforms to find quality suppliers. Some top options include:

• Alibaba / AliExpress
• Temu
• Amazon Global
• iHerb (for supplements)
• Taobao (for unique products)

Always verify supplier ratings, reviews, and shipping policies.

4. Understand Customs & Import Regulations Importing legally in Pakistan involves:

• Getting an NTN (National Tax Number)
• Registering with FBR (Federal Board of Revenue)
• Understanding HS Codes for products
• Calculating customs duties using FBR’s Duty Calculator

Use a customs agent or freight forwarder to simplify the process initially.

5. Setup a Business Entity Register your business as a sole proprietorship or private limited company through SECP. Open a business bank account and set up accounting tools to manage cash flow and taxes.

6. Create an Online Store or Social Presence You can either:

• Build a Shopify/WordPress website
• Sell via Instagram/Facebook Shop
• List your products on Daraz or local marketplaces

Use clean visuals, trending captions, and customer testimonials to grow brand trust.

7. Shipping & Fulfillment Choose your fulfillment model:

• Self-import and stock in Pakistan
• Dropshipping from global suppliers
• Bulk shipping through freight forwarding companies

Use local delivery services (Leopard, TCS, Swyft) for COD orders.

8. Promote & Scale Your Business Invest in paid ads on Facebook, Instagram, and Google. Run giveaways or influencer collaborations. Focus on SEO blogs to drive organic traffic and email marketing to boost repeat sales.

Conclusion: Starting an import-based business in Pakistan isn’t just profitable — it’s also scalable. With the right niche, reliable suppliers, and smart marketing, you can build a solid brand in 2025 and beyond. Stay compliant with tax and import laws, and focus on building trust with your customers.

Need help sourcing or selling imported products? Visit ShopViaAbroad.pk — your partner for smart imports to Pakistan.