Cross-border trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan has come to a near standstill after Islamabad closed all eight crossing points following deadly clashes earlier in October. Officials and traders say the ongoing shutdown has caused severe disruptions to the movement of goods and commercial vehicles.

Business sources estimate that between October 12 and 31 alone, the closure caused $50 million in direct losses, while the total damage to trade has now reached nearly $200 million. Thousands of trucks loaded with perishable goods, fuel, and construction materials remain stranded on both sides of the frontier.

Traders say that before the border tensions, Afghanistan imported about $150 million worth of goods and exported roughly $60 million each month, much of it agricultural produce and minerals. The prolonged suspension has not only halted Afghan exports but also affected Pakistan's trade routes to Central Asia that pass through Afghan territory.

Officials in both countries acknowledge that the dispute has crippled one of South Asia's busiest trade corridors. Merchants warn that prices of essential commodities - including flour, fuel, and vegetables - have surged sharply in Afghanistan border provinces due to supply shortages.

Observers say the closure has deepened economic pressure on Afghanistan's fragile economy, which relies heavily on cross-border commerce for revenue and employment. Pakistan's exporters, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, are also reporting mounting financial losses and logistical bottlenecks.

Regional analysts warn that the continuing deadlock risks long-term damage to bilateral economic relations. Both countries have urged dialogue but no breakthrough has been achieved yet.

Economists say reopening the crossings is critical to restoring trade flows and regional stability, noting that prolonged restrictions could further weaken Afghanistan's already struggling economy and hurt Pakistan's access to Central Asian markets.

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