The closure of key border crossings between Afghanistan and Pakistan has entered its 24th day, halting bilateral trade and leaving drivers, traders, and travelers stranded on both sides.
The prolonged shutdown of five major border points, including Torkham and Spin Boldak, has resulted in an estimated loss of nearly $200 million in just one month, according to the Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Investment.
Khan Jan Alokozay, a senior member of the chamber’s leadership, said that Afghanistan imports approximately $150 million worth of goods from Pakistan monthly, while exports to Pakistan stand at around $60 million. “With trade frozen, both sides are suffering,” he said. “Cargo is not moving, business is at a standstill.”
Although Pakistan briefly reopened the Torkham crossing over the weekend, it was solely for the forced deportation of Afghan nationals without documentation. Commercial and passenger traffic remain blocked across most crossings.
Naqibullah Safi, CEO of the Afghanistan–Pakistan Joint Chamber of Commerce, echoed concerns over the growing economic cost of the closures. “Both countries are incurring losses,” he said, warning of long-term disruptions to supply chains and regional trade.
Thousands of trucks loaded with goods — perishable and otherwise — remain parked at border terminals. Traders have warned that extended delays could result in food spoilage, loss of contracts, and rising consumer prices in Afghan markets already under inflationary pressure.
Stranded and uncertain
Freight drivers and passengers have also reported deteriorating conditions as they wait, often without access to adequate food, water, or sanitation. “We’ve been here for days with no answers,” said Jamaluddin, a truck driver stuck near Spin Boldak. “Every day the situation becomes more difficult.”
The closures were prompted by heightened tensions and border clashes between Taliban and Pakistani forces in October. While both sides have indicated a willingness to de-escalate and have reportedly reached a preliminary agreement to reopen crossings, no full reopening has yet occurred.
The prolonged border closure comes amid other points of strain in the Afghanistan–Pakistan relationship, including Islamabad’s ongoing deportation campaign targeting undocumented Afghans. As of early November, more than 200,000 Afghans have been expelled, according to Taliban officials.
Trade and mobility between the two countries are vital not only for economic stability but also for humanitarian access. Afghanistan remains heavily dependent on overland imports — particularly food, fuel, and medicine — much of which enters through Pakistan.
