How to import reclaimed rubber from Pakistan: a buyer’s guide

How to import reclaimed rubber from Pakistan: a buyer’s guide

Pakistan is one of the world’s significant producers of reclaimed rubber, particularly of Butyl and WTRR grades. Buyers in China, Thailand, Bangladesh, and East Africa have sourced from Pakistani suppliers for years. This guide covers what a first-time importer needs to know about the process.

Step 1: Qualify the supplier

Ask for FBR registration proof. In Pakistan, a legitimate industrial supplier will be registered with the Federal Board of Revenue and able to issue proper sales tax documentation. If a supplier cannot provide this, the transaction sits in a legal grey area that creates customs problems at your end.

Step 2: Sample before the container

Request a courier sample — typically 5–10 kg — before committing to a container order. Reputable suppliers will send a sample at their cost or for a nominal amount. Run your standard incoming QC tests: Mooney viscosity, specific gravity, and ash content are the standard trio for reclaimed rubber.

Step 3: Incoterms and payment

Most Pakistani reclaim suppliers quote FOB Karachi/Port Qasim. Confirmed LC at sight is the standard payment term for first orders; established buyers often move to TT with 30% advance. Avoid 100% advance to an unknown supplier.

Step 4: Documentation

A proper Pakistani export shipment includes: commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin (from TDAP or FPCCI), and where required, a non-hazardous goods declaration. Ensure the HS code on the invoice matches your import declaration (HS 4004.00 for rubber waste and scrap is the common heading for reclaimed rubber).

AIC Green exports to China, and we handle the full documentation package on our end. Contact us if you have specific customs requirements for your country — we have handled varied documentation requests before.