Afghanistan–Pakistan Trade Slumps After Prolonged Border Closures

Afghanistan–Pakistan Trade Slumps After Prolonged Border Closures
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Afghanistan’s trade with Pakistan has dropped by up to 45 percent following the near three-month closure of major border crossings between the two countries, according to Afghanistan’s Chamber of Commerce and Investment, Amu TV reported. Officials say the shutdown has disrupted exports, imports, and vital transit trade.

The chamber said border points have remained closed for 79 days, effectively stopping formal commercial traffic. As a result, Afghan traders have been forced to divert shipments through longer and more expensive routes via Iran and Central Asia, significantly increasing transport times and costs for businesses.

Khan Jan Alokozay, a member of the chamber’s leadership board, said about 12,000 trucks carrying Afghan transit goods are currently stranded in Pakistan. He estimated the trade shortfall at around $400 million, largely linked to imports, while transit trade critical to Afghanistan’s economy has been suspended.

The prolonged disruption has raised concerns about wider economic impacts. Afghan consumers report rising prices for food, medicines, and construction materials due to shortages and higher logistics costs. Pakistan has also felt the effects, with its central bank citing reduced exports to Afghanistan as a factor in a widening trade deficit.