Most CNC machines sold in Pakistan are imported, mainly from China, with smaller volumes from Japan, Taiwan, Korea and Europe. This guide explains what an importer pays on top of the machine price and how a shipment is cleared. Duty rates change with each federal budget, so always confirm current rates before you place an order.
1. Find the HS code for your machine
Customs duty depends on the machine's HS code (called the PCT code in Pakistan). Common headings:
| Machine | HS heading |
|---|---|
| Laser cutters, plasma cutters, EDM, waterjet | 8456 |
| Machining centres (VMC, HMC) | 8457 |
| CNC lathes for metal | 8458 |
| CNC milling, drilling and boring machines | 8459 |
| Wood CNC routers and woodworking machines | 8465 |
| Injection molding machines | 8477 |
| Printing machines | 8443 |
| 3D printers | 8485 |
The full 8 digit PCT code decides the exact rate. Ask your supplier for the code they use and check it against the Pakistan Customs Tariff on the FBR website.
2. Duties and taxes at import
A machine import can attract some or all of the following:
- Customs duty (CD): set by the PCT code.
- Additional customs duty (ACD) and regulatory duty (RD): apply to some codes and change with each budget.
- Sales tax and, for importers who are not registered, additional sales tax.
- Withholding income tax: collected at import and adjustable against your tax return if you are a filer. Non-filers pay a higher rate.
Industrial machinery that is not made in Pakistan can qualify for concessionary rates when imported by a manufacturer for its own use. Machines of Chinese origin may qualify for lower duty under the China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement, but only with a valid certificate of origin from the supplier.
3. How landed cost is worked out
Customs values a shipment on its CIF price (cost, insurance and freight) plus a small landing charge. Duties are calculated on that value, and sales tax is then calculated on the value plus duties, so the taxes compound. On top of that, budget for:
- Clearing agent fees and port or terminal charges.
- Inland transport from the port to your workshop.
- Installation and commissioning, a stabiliser or UPS, and tooling.
Compare your landed cost with what the same machine sells for locally. Our CNC machine price guide lists current used and new prices in Pakistan.
4. The clearance process
- Register as an importer: you need an NTN and an account on Pakistan Single Window (PSW), which handles import declarations.
- Arrange payment through your bank: a letter of credit or advance payment, with the electronic import form filed through PSW.
- Ship to a port or dry port: Karachi Port and Port Qasim, or dry ports such as Lahore, Faisalabad and Sialkot to clear closer to you.
- File the goods declaration: usually through a licensed clearing agent, with the invoice, packing list, bill of lading and certificate of origin.
- Assessment and examination: customs checks the value and classification, then you pay duties and taxes and collect the machine.
Used machinery can be imported, but conditions apply. Check the current Import Policy Order before you buy a second hand machine abroad.
Buying locally instead
If you would rather not import, browse used and new machines already in Pakistan, or ask us to source a machine for you. Suppliers abroad who want to reach Pakistani buyers can sell to Pakistan through PakMachineHub.
Frequently asked questions
How much is import duty on a CNC machine in Pakistan?
It depends on the machine's PCT code, its origin and whether you import as a manufacturer. Customs duty, sales tax and withholding income tax are the main charges. Check the current Pakistan Customs Tariff on the FBR website or ask a clearing agent for a quote before you order.
Do I need a clearing agent to import a CNC machine?
It is not strictly required, but most importers use a licensed clearing agent to file the goods declaration and deal with assessment and examination at the port.
Is it cheaper to import a CNC machine from China?
Often, especially for wood CNC routers and laser cutters. Add freight, duties, clearing and installation to the factory price, then compare the landed cost with machines already for sale in Pakistan.