Torkham Border Closure Causes $240 Million Trade Loss

The closure of the Torkham Border Crossing has resulted in more than $240 million in losses to traders on both sides of the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, according to Pakistani media.

Express Tribune reported on Monday that the shutdown is costing businesses nearly $2 million daily, severely disrupting cross-border commerce and supply chains. The crossing was closed in October 2025 following military clashes between Taliban forces and Pakistani security personnel, halting regular movement and trade activities.

Pakistani officials stated that trade routes with Afghanistan have nearly collapsed, disrupting the transport of goods and increasing economic pressure on traders. Prior to the closure, the crossing handled the daily movement of around 10,000 people and 500 to 700 vehicles carrying commercial goods and passengers.

The route is one of the busiest commercial gateways between Afghanistan and Pakistan, with its closure causing particular damage to border communities dependent on trade.

Taliban authorities recently announced strict restrictions on Pakistani pharmaceutical imports, warning against illegal smuggling, which has further intensified trade disruptions between the neighboring countries.

Prolonged border tensions risk deepening economic losses and humanitarian difficulties unless both sides reach an agreement to reopen the key crossing.