Afghanistan's Taliban Orders Trade Diversion Away From Pakistan Routes Within Three Months

Afghanistan's Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, has instructed Afghan traders to minimize business relations with Pakistan and seek alternative routes for goods transportation.

During a recent press conference, he emphasized that this strategic shift aims to protect Afghanistan's national dignity, as Pakistan has repeatedly obstructed trade routes. The directive is designed to safeguard Afghan trade interests, industrial development, and citizens' rights.

The mandate includes redirecting imports currently sourced from Pakistan to alternative markets and countries.

A significant announcement from the Taliban administration in Afghanistan declares the intention to reduce trade and transit dependencies on Pakistan. In his statement, Deputy Prime Minister Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar emphasized the need to protect national dignity, safeguard trade, support industry, and uphold Afghans' rights.

Additionally, the directive specifies that all pharmaceutical products should now be imported from countries other than Pakistan.

The Taliban has established a three-month timeframe for implementing alternative trade routes, after which the Ministry of Finance will neither tax nor permit the import of medicines from Pakistan.

Border crossings between the two neighboring South Asian nations have remained closed since October 11 following violent clashes that resulted in casualties on both sides.

Meanwhile, Pakistan's business community has urged their government to reopen the border points, citing "severe disruption to the supply chain of perishable goods."

During a press briefing, Malik Sohni, central president of the All Pakistan Markets Federation, stated that the border closure has left thousands of laborers unemployed and caused substantial financial losses for traders and the national treasury.

"Hundreds of trucks loaded with fruits, vegetables, and other agricultural produce are stranded at the border, and much of the produce has already perished," Malik explained.

He expressed disappointment, noting, "In many parts of the world, even hostile countries keep trade routes open in the interest of their people."

Pakistan traditionally exports cement, medicines, flour, steel, textiles, fruits, and vegetables to Afghanistan, while importing coal, soapstone, dry fruits, and fresh fruits from their neighbor.