KABUL: The closure of border crossings between Afghanistan and Pakistan in recent months, particularly during Pakistan’s fruit harvest season, has inflicted significant losses on traders, farmers, and orchard owners in Pakistan, media reported.
The publication “The News on Sunday” reported today that the ongoing blockage has become a major challenge for Pakistani farmers, traders, and consumers, particularly impacting the fruit industry.
According to the Afghanistan-Pakistan Joint Chamber of Commerce, approximately 12,000 containers are currently stranded at the main crossings, resulting in a loss of around 50 billion Pakistani rupees monthly, equating to daily losses of $6 million.
The report highlights that the fate of the fruit is largely dependent on proper storage. Without suitable facilities, soft fruits spoil quickly, especially when transport and logistics are inadequate. Cold storage facilities can serve as a partial solution; however, they are costly, require stable electricity, and necessitate meticulous management.
While Pakistani media report on the losses due to the continued closure of border crossings, Afghan farmers and orchard owners also suffered due to the blockades during this year’s harvest season.
The Afghan government has sought alternative routes through Pakistan for exporting fresh fruits and other domestic products, successfully preventing further losses in a timely manner.
Kabul-Islamabad border closures lead to $6 million trade losses during Pakistan’s fruit season
