Traders and agronomists in Afghanistan's southeastern Khost province are facing seasonal losses due to the closure of the Ghulam Khan road. The route has been shut down for an indefinite period, citing security concerns from the Pakistani administration.
Syed Al-Rahman, a produce trader, informed Pajhwok that vehicles loaded with Afghan goods were stranded on both sides of Ghulam Khan Port, with no passage allowed. He noted that the road closure is a recurring issue, stating, "Since the Ghulam Khan road closes every year during this season, Afghan farmers face many problems. Previously, seven kilograms of fresh tomatoes cost around US$2.06, but now they sell for just US$0.23."
Guldad, another trader, highlighted the economic consequences, reporting financial losses each time the road is closed. He appealed to the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) to intervene and reopen the transit route, explaining, "Our tomatoes are being sold for US$0.11 to US$0.17, which doesn't even cover farmers' plastic packaging and transportation costs."
Regional farmers report a sharp decline in produce prices due to the transportation disruption. Layeq Shah, a local farmer, observed, "Seven kilograms of Pakistani tomatoes sell here for about US$3.44, but our own crops don't even generate enough revenue to pay for labor. If the road were reopened, it would be much better." Another farmer, Mirki, echoed concerns that production costs now exceed revenues.
Nawab Amirzai, head of the Chamber of Commerce and Industries, stated, "Pakistan consistently uses Ghulam Khan and other ports as tools of political pressure, closing them to Afghan trade without reason." He called for diplomatic engagement by the IEA to prevent future trade disruptions and align bilateral trade regulations.
In response, provincial officials reported ongoing efforts by IEA leaders to negotiate reopening the road. Mustaghfer Gurbaz, speaking on behalf of the governor, said, "Last Sunday, Pakistan closed this road to all traffic, citing security concerns on their side. It's still unclear how long the closure will last."
Industry observers warn that without strategic engagement, recurring trade disruptions between Afghanistan and Pakistan are likely to continue.
Source: Pajhwok