According to a Channel News Asia report, the suspension of trade between Afghanistan and Pakistan has left Pakistani exporters facing billions of dollars in losses, stranded goods, and rising transportation costs to reach Central Asian markets.
Business associations estimate that the trade suspension has caused losses exceeding $2.5 billion. Pakistan’s pharmaceutical, food, and agricultural export sectors have also been severely affected.
The report says that shipments previously reaching Uzbekistan through the Torkham border crossing in about one week now take nearly six weeks via Iran. Transportation costs have also increased from $2,000–$3,000 to approximately $10,000–$13,000 per shipment.
Islamabad says trade will not resume until the Taliban government takes action against militants it alleges operate from Afghan territory. However, economic analysts warn that the continued suspension is also harming Pakistan’s exports and economy.
Business associations from both countries have urged Kabul and Islamabad to resolve their differences through dialogue.
