The Afghanistan-Pakistan Joint Chamber of Commerce and Investment announced that the closure of trade crossings by Pakistan has caused traders from both countries to suffer more than $100 million in financial losses so far.
This situation has cast uncertainty over the future of trade between the two countries, with significant economic damages being inflicted on both sides daily.
Khan Jan Alokozai, head of the joint chamber, said that as long as trade issues are not separated from security and intelligence matters, solving the problem is impossible.
He emphasized that trade is now within the circle of security issues and the problem stems from Pakistan’s side. Afghanistan is ready to reopen the routes, but the future of trade appears bleak.
Several import traders also reported increased costs and spoilage of goods, especially fruits, due to using alternative routes.
Merchants are demanding immediate reopening of crossings to prevent further losses.
About 8,000 loaded and empty trucks are stranded on both sides, incurring approximately $100 daily in customs fees.
