گذرگاه‌های تجارتی افغانستان و پاکستان برای دهمین روز بسته مانده‌اند

For the tenth consecutive day, shared trade crossings between Afghanistan and Pakistan remain closed.

Three days after the initial ceasefire agreement between Kabul and Islamabad, the fate of these economic corridors is still unclear.

The Afghanistan–Pakistan Joint Chamber of Commerce says that part of the negotiations between the two countries’ delegations focused on the immediate reopening of the trade routes, but so far, no tangible results have been achieved.

Khanjan Alokozai, head of the Joint Chamber of Commerce, stated: “Unfortunately, there are still issues keeping the routes closed. If clear instructions are issued from Kabul and Islamabad, all crossings can be reopened easily, as the systems are already in place. We were hopeful when yesterday containers coming from Karachi were allowed to pass through Spin Boldak, but the route was closed again.”

Meanwhile, the Chamber of Commerce of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa expressed concern to TOLOnews over the ongoing closure, saying it hopes the crossings will reopen soon following the conclusion of negotiations between the two delegations.

Shahid Hussain, a member of the chamber, said: “The continuation of this situation has become challenging for both sides. Farmers and traders are currently facing major problems, and trade has nearly come to a halt, this is discouraging for business people.”

On the other hand, the Afghan Dried Fruits Exporters Union, citing heavy economic losses due to the closures, is calling for the creation of alternative routes to prevent further damage.

Abdul Qasim Amarkhil, head of the Kabul Dried Fruits Exporters Union, said: “There is a need to establish alternative routes, especially by activating air cargo services. We urge the Islamic Emirate to facilitate the use of charter planes so that in times of crisis like this, we can transport export goods by air.”

According to the private sectors of both countries, the continuation of this situation has not only disrupted bilateral trade but also weakened business confidence regarding the future of economic cooperation.