Pakistan-Afghanistan border closure sparks soaring food prices and trade losses

The continued closure of border crossings between Pakistan and Afghanistan has caused a sharp increase in the prices of essential commodities in both countries,

ISLAMABAD/KABUL: The continued closure of border crossings between Pakistan and Afghanistan has caused a sharp increase in the prices of essential commodities in both countries, with tomatoes and other perishable goods becoming nearly unaffordable for ordinary citizens.

Since October 11, border trade has been completely halted after intense fighting broke out along the 2,600-kilometre frontier, including Pakistani airstrikes and ground clashes, which left dozens dead in one of the most serious escalations since the Taliban’s takeover of Kabul in 2021.

According to officials from both sides, all cross-border trade and transit have been suspended, leaving thousands of trucks stranded. Khan Jan Alokozay, Chairman of the Pak-Afghan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PACCI), said that the daily trade losses have reached nearly $1 million as a result of the blockade.

“With every passing day, traders on both sides are suffering heavy losses. Perishable goods like fruits and vegetables have already spoiled,” Alokozay told reporters.

Soaring Food Prices Hit Consumers

The impact of the shutdown has been felt most strongly in Pakistan’s local markets. Prices of tomatoes — a staple ingredient in Pakistani cuisine — have surged by over 400 percent, reaching around Rs600 per kilogram, up from roughly Rs120 earlier this month.

Similarly, the cost of Afghan apples, which are widely consumed in Pakistan, has also skyrocketed, while shortages of grapes and other seasonal produce have been reported in major cities including Peshawar, Lahore, and Karachi.

A senior customs official at Torkham, the busiest crossing point between the two countries, said that around 5,000 containers loaded with fruits, vegetables, minerals, and other goods remain stuck on both sides of the border. “The disruption has already created a shortage of key food items in Pakistan’s markets,” the official said.

Trade Volume and Economic Impact

Pakistan and Afghanistan share an annual trade volume of approximately $2.3 billion, involving a wide range of goods such as fresh produce, minerals, medicine, wheat, rice, sugar, meat, and dairy products. The current standoff has not only halted commercial movement but has also affected the livelihoods of thousands of transporters, traders, and border workers.

Ceasefire Holding, But Trade Still Frozen

The border clashes erupted after Pakistan accused the Afghan Taliban government of failing to act against militants carrying out attacks from Afghan territory. Kabul has denied these allegations, calling them “unfounded.”

Following mediation by Qatar and Turkey, both sides agreed to a temporary ceasefire last weekend, which has largely held so far. However, border crossings — including Torkham, Chaman, and Ghulam Khan — remain sealed, with trade yet to resume.

Diplomatic sources confirm that the next round of peace talks is scheduled for October 25 in Istanbul, where officials are expected to discuss not only security concerns but also measures to restore the movement of goods and people.