Kabul, Oct 15 — As key border crossings between Pakistan and Afghanistan remained sealed for the fourth consecutive day, growing concerns have emerged over the severe impact on bilateral trade and the livelihoods of thousands dependent on cross-border commerce.
Major trade gateways, including Torkham, Spin Boldak, Ghulam Khan, Dand Patan, and Shahr Naw, have been closed following a surge in political and military tensions between the two neighbouring countries. With no timeline announced for reopening, hundreds of trucks loaded with perishable goods remain stranded on both sides of the Durand Line, leading to mounting financial losses for traders.
According to the Border Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the ongoing shutdown has caused serious economic disruption. The Chamber urged both governments to take immediate steps to restore trade operations. “At the moment, trade routes are closed. Our request to both governments is to resolve this issue so that trade and cross-border movement can resume. The damage affects both Afghanistan and Pakistan,” said former Chamber head Shahad Hussain.
The Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Investment (ACCI) condemned Pakistan’s decision, calling it a violation of international trade norms. ACCI spokesperson Jan Aqa Naveed noted that the World Trade Organization (WTO) discourages restrictions that hinder exports, imports, or transit trade. He also emphasized the need for Afghanistan to diversify trade routes through Iran, Central Asia, and China to reduce reliance on Pakistan.
Meanwhile, tensions intensified further as Taliban officials reported that 12 civilians were killed and more than 100 injured in Pakistani military strikes on Spin Boldak district in Kandahar. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid claimed Afghan forces launched retaliatory operations that destroyed several Pakistani outposts.
The escalating border conflict and prolonged closure have compounded humanitarian and economic pressures across the region, threatening stability in both nations.
