Pakistani Opposition Leader Says Chaman Border Closure Harms Economy
Mahmood Khan Achakzai, head of the opposition coalition in Pakistan’s parliament, has stated that the continued closure of the Chaman border crossing with Afghanistan has caused serious damage to the economy and livelihoods, particularly for residents of the border regions. Achakzai described the situation as unfair, emphasizing that communities reliant on trade and cross-border movement have suffered the most.
Speaking at a public gathering in Balochistan province, he stressed that ordinary citizens and legitimate traders should not be made victims of decisions that leave them facing economic uncertainty. According to him, the imposed restrictions have not only hindered lawful economic activities but also failed to have any tangible impact on perpetrators of violence.
Achakzai called the disruption of trade and customs activities between Pakistan and Afghanistan part of a deliberate plan and warned that the ongoing state of affairs has severely affected traders, drivers, and families dependent on cross-border commerce. He urged an immediate reconsideration of the decision to keep the border closed.
The leader of the Tehreek-e-Tahaffuz-e-Aain also highlighted the importance of strengthening democratic institutions and enhancing the parliament’s role in major decisions. He called on Pakistan’s political parties to collaborate in supporting equal citizen rights and expanding economic opportunities in border areas.
The Chaman crossing in Balochistan is one of the most important commercial and transit routes between Pakistan and Afghanistan, with thousands of families relying on transportation, exports, imports, and cross-border movement for their livelihoods.
This crossing between Chaman and Spin Boldak has remained closed since October 2025 following intense clashes between Pakistani forces and the Taliban administration. The economic consequences of this closure continue to affect residents on both sides of the border.
