Pakistan is attempting to reopen port access for exports to Afghanistan as the fruit export season starts, according to Afghanistan's Minister of Energy and Water, Abdul Latif Mansoor. He said Islamabad is working to address Afghan demands and resume trade routes through various diplomatic channels, including the United Nations, Islamic countries, and individual mediators.
Mansoor stated that Pakistan's past actions have created barriers to Afghan trade. He said the Pakistani government has acted against the principles of international commerce by restricting access for Afghan businesses during key trading periods, which he said has caused economic losses. While expressing support for Afghan traders who have called for maintaining closures toward Pakistan, he added that reciprocal measures should be considered so that Pakistan would "taste the loss."
Trade between the two countries remains restricted following recent military clashes between the Islamic Emirate and Pakistan. Transit crossings for exports and imports are currently closed. Pakistani media previously reported higher prices for Afghan products in their domestic markets due to the reduced flow of goods.
Growers and exporters monitoring the situation note that the continued closure of these routes affects the movement of fruit during the current export window, with both countries relying on cross-border trade for seasonal commodities.
Source: Afghan Voice Agency
