Pakistan Enhances Transit Trade Capacity with Modern Border Terminals at Torkham and Chaman

Islamabad:In a major development aimed at boosting Pakistan’s transit trade capabilities and speeding up cross-border trade processes, the **National Logistics Corporation (NLC)** has completed 97% of the work on the **Integrated Transit Trade Management System** at its key border terminals in **Torkham** and **Chaman**. These state-of-the-art terminals, expected to be inaugurated in **February 2025**, will position Pakistan among the developed nations with advanced border facilities.

The project, funded by the **Asian Development Bank (ADB)**, is being closely monitored by the **Federal Board of Revenue (FBR)** and is being constructed at Pakistan’s two major border crossing points. The terminals are designed to meet **international standards**, with modern amenities and facilities to facilitate efficient trade with **Afghanistan**, **Central Asian countries**, and other regional partners.

### **Impact on Trade and Economic Growth**
The completion of these terminals is expected to significantly increase trade volume with Afghanistan, Central Asia, and neighboring countries, driving economic growth in the region. The establishment of these modern facilities is anticipated to create a positive impact on social and economic development, benefiting local industries, exporters, and especially the **tribal populations** living in the border areas.

These projects, undertaken by NLC, faced several challenges during construction. However, NLC has continued to work steadfastly on these strategically important projects, ensuring their timely completion. The border terminals will offer both **traditional** and **modern computerized** services to streamline the delivery of goods and services.

### **Enhanced Facilities and Operations**
Once operational, these border terminals will be able to handle up to **2,400 trucks** daily — a five-fold increase over the current capacity. The facilities will also provide parking space for **400 trucks** and **100 light vehicles** in the import and export yards. Additionally, a modern **Administration Center** has been established at the terminals, where key governmental agencies, including **Customs**, **Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF)**, **FIA**, **Border Rangers**, **Plant Protection Department**, and **Animal Quarantine Authorities**, will carry out their duties.

A wide **business center** has also been set up at the terminals, offering services to **banks**, **Internet-related services**, and **clearing agents**. Offices for **immigration**, **customs**, and **security agencies** have been established to handle passenger movement and immigration-related matters.

### **Cutting-Edge Security Features**
In terms of security, the border terminals are equipped with the latest **x-ray gantry scanners**, **pass-through scanners**, and **under-vehicle scanners** to ensure comprehensive security. Other advanced equipment includes **weight scales**, **explosive and narcotics detection devices**, **biometric data collection systems**, and **scanners for hand luggage** — all contributing to enhanced security protocols at the terminals.

### **Strengthening Regional Connectivity**
The development of these world-class commercial hubs at Torkham and Chaman will not only enhance **regional connectivity** but also position Pakistan as a key player in **regional trade**. These terminals will serve as critical gateways for goods and services flowing across South Asia, significantly contributing to **Pakistan’s economic growth** and enhancing its role in the broader regional economy.

The new terminals will serve as a critical infrastructure boost for Pakistan’s logistics and trade sector, facilitating smoother transit and trade processes, ultimately benefiting the national economy and enhancing Pakistan’s strategic importance in regional and global trade.