A severe border crisis between Pakistan and Afghanistan has left dozens of Pakistani truck drivers stranded for weeks, disrupting critical export routes and paralyzing regional commerce. The ongoing standoff has resulted in a massive backlog of hundreds of vehicles at key border crossings, with drivers facing extreme hardship.
The closure of these vital trade arteries has virtually halted the flow of Pakistani goods, including the seasonal kinnow fruit, destined for Afghanistan and potentially reaching Iran and Central Asian countries. This situation arises from recent heavy clashes between Pakistani and Afghan forces, the most serious conflict since the Taliban’s return to power in 2021. Pakistan has voiced concerns over Afghanistan’s role in controlling militant groups operating from its territory.
The economic consequences are particularly acute for the kinnow export industry, which relies on this period for peak sales. Exporters, logistics providers, and freight handlers are witnessing their perishable products deteriorate, leading to substantial financial losses. The disruption impacts the entire economic chain, from agricultural producers to transportation services.
Adding to the woes, proposals to facilitate financial transactions for exports to Iran and Central Asian markets have reportedly been rejected, further complicating matters for businesses. Last year’s kinnow exports reached $110 million, but this year’s figures are expected to shrink to $100 million due to the current crisis. Thousands of containers remain stuck, accumulating significant demurrage costs for traders and agents. There is an urgent plea for authorities to suspend these charges to prevent smaller businesses from collapsing under the financial strain.