Pakistan Chamber Urges Reopening of Trade Crossings with Afghanistan

The Pakistan-Afghanistan Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry has called for the immediate reopening of border crossings and the resumption of trade between the two countries. In a formal letter, the chamber warned that the continued closure of these crossings is pushing the trade sector to the brink of an economic crisis.

Juned Maqda, the chamber’s president, addressed the letter to Pakistan’s Ministry of Commerce, Federal Board of Revenue, and other relevant authorities, urging the Islamabad government to take swift measures to resolve trade disruptions. He emphasized that prolonged closure of key border crossings—including Torkham, Chaman, and Ghulam Khan—has halted thousands of shipping containers currently stuck across various regions in Pakistan.

According to Maqda, the potential value of bilateral trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan exceeds $5 billion annually. However, due to the repeated closure of border points, this figure has dropped to under $1 billion. He noted that delays in the movement of trade convoys have caused significant financial losses for traders, transport companies, and drivers, with some truckers reportedly spending around $200 per day for each halted vehicle.

The letter stated that the current situation has stranded hundreds of commercial vehicles destined for Afghan importers, leading to extensive operational and financial difficulties. While the joint chamber acknowledged Pakistan’s security concerns, it stressed that the economic damage inflicted on businesses and merchants cannot be overlooked.

The appeal comes at a time when the Taliban administration has failed to present a clear and effective framework for ensuring border stability and security. Observers say the group’s role in recent tensions with Pakistan has directly impacted trade flows and the livelihoods of thousands of Afghan families. Experts warn that the Taliban’s continued pursuit of irresponsible policies may further sideline Afghanistan from regional economic engagement.

Despite repeated appeals from trade organizations, Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced that the border crossings will remain closed until further notice. A ministry spokesperson stated that the safety of Pakistani citizens remains the government’s top priority, although it is unclear how long the current situation will persist.