Trade activities between Pakistan and Afghanistan have been halted for a second consecutive day at the Torkham border owing to unresolved visa restrictions affecting transporters from both nations.
Despite a meeting between border officials late Saturday, no solution was reached, leaving the bilateral trade limbo. Sources from Torkham reported that no vehicles were permitted to cross the border since Saturday, impacting both import and export activities. Due to the uncertainty of the visa dispute, local fruit dealers have been advised to relocate their goods back to Peshawar.
Escalating Trade Disruptions and Financial Impacts
The impasse intensified as Pakistan enforced visa restrictions on Afghan drivers lacking legal travel documents, prompting reciprocal measures from Afghan authorities at the Torkham and Kharlaachi border crossings. This tit-for-tat response has led to a standstill in bilateral trade, significantly impacting local traders and transporters.
The Torkham Custom Clearing Agents Association highlighted the severe financial losses, particularly for fruit and vegetable exporters, as perishable goods risk spoilage. The national exchequer is also suffering considerable losses due to halted customs clearances.
Sabir Khan, a local customs agent, noted increased export traffic from Pakistan, including agricultural products and manufactured goods. However, the sudden visa restrictions have resulted in severe traffic congestion and stranded Pakistani cargo at the border. Customs and security officials are reportedly in continuous communication with higher authorities in Islamabad, seeking an expedient resolution to mitigate the negative impact on trade and transportation.
