The Taliban-run Ministry of Industry and Commerce said Thursday it has set specific hours for Afghanistan’s exports through the Torkham border crossing with Pakistan.
In a statement, the ministry said the decision was made in consultation with the private sector. Under the new schedule, 14 hours daily are allocated for exports of fresh fruits and vegetables, while 10 hours are reserved for other goods.
It added that the measure is aimed at easing the export process, reducing spoilage of perishable agricultural products and creating more convenience for traders.
The ministry said it has asked customs and transport authorities at Torkham to cooperate in implementing the new plan.
Torkham, located in eastern Nangarhar province, is one of Afghanistan’s busiest trade routes and a key crossing point for goods moving between the two countries. Afghanistan exports agricultural produce, coal, and minerals to Pakistan, while importing food, textiles, petroleum, and other goods.
Bilateral trade has often been disrupted by political tensions, border closures, and disputes over customs procedures. Despite this, Pakistan remains one of Afghanistan’s largest trading partners, with annual trade between the two countries estimated at around $2 billion.
