Afghanistan Shifts Trade to Chabahar and Central Asia as Pakistan Tightens Borders

Pakistan has halted processing for roughly 5,500 Afghan‑bound containers following recent security incidents.

Overview

Traffic via Iran’s Chabahar port rose by more than 40 percent in October and November compared with mid‑2024, signaling a significant diversion from Pakistani routes.
Pakistan Customs on November 8 blocked Afghan‑origin consignments entering through Iran, citing the risk of misuse of the Early Harvest Programme.
Afghan Deputy Prime Minister Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar instructed traders and industrialists to seek alternative corridors rather than rely on Pakistan.
Pakistani authorities allege recent attacks in Islamabad and at a cadet college were planned by TTP elements operating from Afghanistan, shaping the tougher border posture.
Analysts estimate Pakistan could lose up to $500 million a year in transit trade if the rerouting continues, even as Afghan exporters face higher costs and logistical strain.