Pakistan Suffers $4.5 Billion Trade Loss Amid Prolonged Torkham Border Closure with Afghanistan
Trade Disruption Deepens Economic Strain
Pakistan’s economy has taken a major hit, suffering an estimated $4.5 billion in trade losses following the prolonged closure of the Torkham border with Afghanistan — a key trade and transit route connecting South and Central Asia.
Exporters and logistics companies have expressed concern over the mounting losses, citing contract breaches, delayed shipments, and rising transport costs. The closure has particularly hurt Pakistan’s exports of textiles, cement, pharmaceuticals, and fresh produce, which rely heavily on overland routes to reach Afghan and Central Asian markets.
According to trade officials, the shutdown, which has persisted for several weeks due to heightened security tensions and diplomatic disagreements, has halted thousands of trucks carrying essential goods, fuel, and perishable commodities. The disruption has not only affected bilateral trade but also caused severe supply chain issues in both countries.
Exporters Warn of Lasting Impact
Business groups have urged Islamabad to urgently resolve border disputes through diplomatic engagement to prevent further economic fallout. They warn that continued disruption could undermine investor confidence and regional trade stability.
Meanwhile, Afghan officials have also voiced frustration, saying the stalemate is harming both sides’ economies and daily livelihoods of border communities dependent on cross-border commerce.
The Ministry of Commerce has yet to issue an official timeline for reopening, but sources indicate that talks between the two nations are ongoing to restore normal trade operations at the strategic crossing point.
