KARACHI, Pakistan — The Afghanistan-Pakistan transit trade experienced a sharp decline of 59% year-over-year in the fiscal year 2023-24, falling to $2.9 billion, according to Pakistani media reports.
The drop is attributed to Pakistan’s intensified anti-smuggling measures and stricter import restrictions.
Bilateral trade between the two countries also decreased by 12% during the same period, driven largely by a 40% reduction in imports of Afghan goods, as reported by The Nation.
Despite the overall decline, Pakistan’s exports to Afghanistan continued to grow, registering a 12% increase during the fiscal year.
Pakistan’s exports to Afghanistan were valued at $59.11 million in FY 2023-24. In the current fiscal year, 2024-25, these exports have surged by 75%, reaching $103.52 million.
On the import side, Pakistan’s imports from Afghanistan totaled $40.87 million in FY 2023-24, decreasing by 8% to $37.67 million in FY 2024-25.
In July 2024, the total bilateral trade volume between Pakistan and Afghanistan reached $141.18 million, reflecting a 41% increase from the $99.98 million recorded in July 2023. The trade volume also saw a 45% month-over-month rise from $97.43 million in June 2024.
Pakistan’s exports to Afghanistan in July 2024 were valued at $103.52 million, marking a 75% increase compared to the same month last year.
