A prolonged shutdown of key trade crossings between Pakistan and Taliban authorities has sharply increased fruit and vegetable prices in Punjab province, local media reported on Monday. The closures follow renewed military tensions along the shared border.

Retail markets in major cities have seen notable price spikes in fresh produce, including Afghanistan-imported grapes and pomegranates, as well as Iranian apples and tomatoes. Consumers say the increases have outpaced official rate lists issued by provincial authorities.

Despite Pakistan announcing new pricing guidelines for fruit and vegetables, shoppers complain that profiteering and hoarding are worsening affordability. Traders argue that supply shortages and transport disruptions are leaving them with no alternative.

The border restrictions have also inflicted heavy financial losses on Afghanistan businesses, with millions of dollars in produce stranded due to halted transit. Afghan traders warn that the longer the stalemate continues, the greater the economic damage will be for exporters.

In Afghanistan, prices for some Pakistani-imported produce have also risen, reflecting the interdependence of cross-border agricultural markets. Supply chains in both countries remain closely linked, particularly for perishable goods.

Pakistani officials maintain the closures will stay in place until security concerns are resolved, insisting that the safety of their citizens takes priority over commercial interests. Talks to ease tensions have yet to produce a breakthrough.

Economists say the disruption illustrates the vulnerability of regional food networks to political and security disputes. A swift reopening, they argue, would help stabilise markets and prevent further inflationary pressures on both sides of the frontier.

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