Torkham Border Closed for 23 Days, Resulting in $66 Million Loss in Bilateral Trade

The Torkham border between Pakistan and Afghanistan has been closed for 23 days, causing a halt in trade between the two countries. As a result, both nations have suffered a combined loss of $66 million in bilateral trade so far.

In an effort to ease tensions and restore trade, a joint tribal jirga consisting of prominent figures from both countries has been established. The jirga is actively working to de-escalate the situation, and the second meeting of the jirga is expected to take place within the next two days. Thanks to the jirga’s efforts, a ceasefire agreement is still in effect.

According to customs authorities, Afghanistan typically imports an average of $1.6 million daily, while exports amount to $1.4 million. However, trade through the Torkham crossing has come to a standstill due to the border closure.

Reports indicate that over the past 22 days, a total of $66 million worth of trade has been disrupted. On average, about 10,000 people cross the Torkham border daily, traveling between Afghanistan and Pakistan.