Afghanistan-Pakistan Chamber Urges Immediate Reopening of Border Crossings
The Afghanistan-Pakistan Joint Chamber of Commerce has formally urged the Pakistani government to immediately reopen the closed border crossings between the two countries, warning of severe economic consequences. The Chamber stated that goods valued at approximately $6 billion are currently stranded at the borders, and prolonged closures are negatively impacting both nations’ economies.
According to the letter, the potential annual trade volume between Afghanistan and Pakistan could exceed $5 billion. However, recent tensions and the closure of trade routes have caused this figure to plummet to less than $1 billion.
Juned Maqda, Chairman of the Chamber, emphasized that the issue is not merely administrative, stressing that the livelihoods of millions—including workers at border points—are at stake. He added that the halt in trade has led to increased unemployment and poverty, worsening living conditions for thousands of Afghan and Pakistani families.
Khan Jan Alokozai, another official from the Chamber, also called for the immediate release of the containers stranded on both sides of the border. “Our priority is to allow these goods to be transported. This capital belongs to both countries and should not fall victim to political conflicts,” he said.
These appeals come amid recent comments by the Taliban administration expressing its intention to reduce Afghanistan’s economic dependence on Pakistan—a decision made in response to ongoing border tensions and the closure of crossings. Critics argue, however, that this strategy has not improved Afghanistan’s economy and has instead disrupted trade and harmed citizens’ welfare.
Key trade routes such as Torkham, Spin Boldak, Ghulam Khan, Dand-e Patan, and Chaman have remained closed for over a month, resulting in thousands of commercial containers being stalled at the border. The situation has led to significant financial losses and underscores the urgent need for coordinated action from both the Taliban authorities and Pakistani officials.
