Pak-Afghan Border Closure Causes Daily Losses Worth Millions for Pakistani Exporters

Exporters across Pakistan are raising urgent concerns as the prolonged closure of major Pak-Afghan border crossings continues to inflict massive financial losses every day. The shutdown of key trade points, particularly the Torkham crossing, has left hundreds of cargo trucks stranded for weeks, blocking the movement of essential goods. Items such as cement, pharmaceuticals, fresh fruits, vegetables, textiles, and other consumer products remain stuck in transit, causing severe disruptions in the supply chain.

Perishable goods are deteriorating inside sealed containers, manufacturing companies are missing delivery deadlines, and exporters are incurring heavy costs from storage fees, spoilage, halted production cycles, and cancelled orders. Trade organizations estimate that Pakistan has already suffered tens of millions of dollars in losses, with financial damage mounting daily as the border closure persists. Cement and pharmaceutical exporters are among the most affected, warning that Afghan buyers are increasingly seeking alternative suppliers in other countries.

The economic impact also extends to border communities, where thousands of families depend on cross-border trade for their livelihoods. Truck drivers, loaders, shopkeepers, and small-scale traders are facing severe hardships as their primary source of income remains blocked.

Industry representatives are calling on authorities for immediate intervention, cautioning that extended border restrictions could cause long-term damage to Pakistan’s trade presence in Afghanistan and disrupt regional commerce that has historically connected the two countries. The situation highlights the critical importance of reopening these trade routes to safeguard economic stability, protect livelihoods, and maintain Pakistan’s competitiveness in regional markets.