Before you can ship a single carton abroad, your business needs to exist in the right systems. None of these registrations is difficult on its own. What confuses people is the number of them and the order they depend on each other.
This guide explains each one and a sensible order to do them in. Procedures and fees change from time to time, so always confirm the current requirements with the relevant office or your bank before you start.
1. Register Your Business Entity
Exporting is possible as a sole proprietor, a partnership, or a private limited company. The choice affects liability, taxation, and how buyers and banks see you. Many exporters start as sole proprietors and later incorporate with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) as the business grows. A private limited company can look more established to international buyers and banks, but it adds compliance work. Take advice from an accountant who understands export businesses.
2. Get Your National Tax Number (NTN)
The NTN from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) is the foundation of everything else. You register online through the FBR's IRIS system. Individuals use their CNIC; companies and partnerships register as entities. If you will deal in taxable goods, you may also need sales tax registration (STRN). Your tax adviser can tell you what applies to your product.
3. Open a Business Bank Account With an Authorised Dealer Bank
Export proceeds must come back through the formal banking system. Choose a bank with a strong trade finance department — you will rely on them for export documentation, letters of credit, foreign currency receipts, and possibly export finance. Ask directly: how many exporters do they handle, what are their charges for document handling and LCs, and who will be your contact in the trade department?
💡 Pick your bank for its trade desk, not its branch
A helpful trade finance officer who answers the phone saves more money and stress than a slightly lower fee. Meet them before you open the account.
4. Register on the Pakistan Single Window (PSW)
PSW is the national platform connecting traders with customs and the other government departments involved in cross-border trade. Exporters use it to file Goods Declarations, handle electronic export forms with their bank, and apply for certain permits and certificates. You register using your NTN and CNIC details, and link your bank account. See our Pakistan Single Window guide for how it fits into a shipment.
5. Join Your Chamber of Commerce or Trade Association
Membership of the local chamber of commerce and industry, or of a recognised trade association for your sector, is generally required before you can obtain a certificate of origin — and it also counts as proof of your business's standing with some government departments. Sector associations also share market intelligence, organise delegations, and represent your industry in policy discussions. Membership is renewed annually, so diarise the renewal.
6. Register With TDAP (Recommended)
The Trade Development Authority of Pakistan promotes exports and organises Pakistani participation in international trade fairs, often with subsidised stall space. Registration is not required to export, but it gives you access to fairs, trade delegations, and market reports that are useful when you are choosing your first export market.
7. Sector-Specific Registrations
Depending on your product, you may need additional approvals:
- Food and agricultural products: plant protection or animal quarantine certification, and sometimes registration with bodies such as the Department of Plant Protection. Some importing countries also require your facility to be registered with their authorities — for example China's GACC registration for many food manufacturers.
- Medical devices and surgical instruments: registration and certification driven by the importing market — see exporting surgical instruments.
- Minerals and certain regulated goods: additional permissions may apply.
The Order That Works
| Step | Registration | Depends on |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Business entity (sole proprietor, partnership, or company) | CNIC |
| 2 | FBR NTN (and STRN if required) | Entity details |
| 3 | Business bank account | NTN and entity documents |
| 4 | Pakistan Single Window | NTN and bank account |
| 5 | Chamber or trade association | NTN and entity documents |
| 6 | TDAP (optional) | NTN and chamber membership |
After Registration: Your First Shipment
With registrations complete you can quote, contract, and ship. For each shipment your customs clearing agent will file a Goods Declaration through PSW, and your bank will handle the electronic export form that ties the shipment to the incoming payment. Keep copies of every document — you will need them for tax, banking, and any future dispute.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I export as an individual without a company?
Yes. Sole proprietors can export once they have an NTN, a business bank account, PSW registration, and chamber or association membership. Many exporters later incorporate a company as they grow.
How long does exporter registration take in Pakistan?
The individual steps are usually quick, often a few days each, but bank account opening and chamber membership can take longer depending on documents. Plan for a few weeks in total.
Is TDAP registration mandatory for exporters?
No. TDAP registration is not mandatory to export, but it is useful for trade fair participation, delegations, and market information.
Do I need a customs agent to export?
You can file some processes yourself through PSW, but most exporters use a licensed customs clearing agent, especially in the beginning. See our guide on working with a customs clearing agent.
Ready to Take Your Products Global?
Hexaco Global works with manufacturers from first enquiry to shipped order — finding verified buyers, negotiating terms, and building the digital presence international buyers trust.
Explore the Seller Network →