 "The cost of tomatoes surging by over 400% since the crossing closed on October 11 (Reuters)")
Prices of essential goods have skyrocketed on both sides of the Pakistan-Afghanistan border following ground fighting and Pakistani airstrikes this month, with the cost of tomatoes surging by over 400% since the crossing closed on October 11.
The price of tomatoes, a staple in Pakistani cuisine, has increased more than fivefold, rising to around 600 Pakistani rupees ($2.13) per kilogramme. Apples, largely imported from Afghanistan, are also experiencing a major price surge, further straining household budgets.
$1 million in losses per day
All trade and transit—including fresh fruit, vegetables, medicine, wheat, and dairy products—have been blocked since the hostilities erupted. Khan Jan Alokozay, head of the Pak-Afghan Chamber of Commerce in Kabul, told Reuters that the closure is costing both nations approximately $1 million per day in lost trade.
The annual trade volume between the two countries is estimated at $2.3 billion, and the current blockade has left about 5,000 containers of goods stranded at the border. Alokozay reported that approximately 500 containers of perishable vegetables meant for export are already spoiling.
The border clashes were reportedly triggered by Islamabad’s demand that Kabul control militants operating from Afghan territory who attack Pakistan. Although a ceasefire was recently agreed upon through talks hosted by Qatar and Turkey, the vital trade corridor remains closed. The next round of negotiations is scheduled for October 25 in Istanbul.