After the collapse of Istanbul dialogue and two terror attacks on its soil originating from Afghanistan, Pakistan’s any likely decision to simultaneously exercise the options of blocking across the border human and trade movement and flexing security muscles can compound Kabul’s woes and build internal pressure on the regime to normalise ties.
According to trade statistics, Afghanistan exports to Pakistan were equal to 45 percent of its total exports in 2024, making Islamabad the single largest trading partner. Kabul’s heavy dependence on Islamabad and given its landlocked country status, the western neighbour has limited alternatives to suddenly find a sustainable market for nearly half of its exports.
From its southeastern, south and eastern sides, Afghanistan uses three border crossing points to sell its goods to Pakistan. These are near to its farm produce and make Pakistan an economically viable option to sell fresh fruits, vegetables and dry fruits.
According to Pakistan Customs, Kabul exported Rs170 billion worth of goods to Pakistan through these border crossings in the fiscal year 2024-25.
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