Khyber Chamber Chief Reveals $2.5 Billion Economic Hit from Torkham Border Closure

The President of the Khyber Chamber of Commerce in Pakistan has announced that the closure of the Torkham border has cost the country’s economy $2.5 billion, and he is calling for the immediate reopening of this crossing.

Significant Economic Losses for Pakistan

Yusuf Afridi, President of the Khyber Chamber of Commerce and Industry, stated in a press conference in Landikotal that the ongoing closure of the Torkham border with Afghanistan has inflicted approximately $2.5 billion in damages to Pakistan’s economy. He stressed the urgency for reopening this vital passageway, warning that prolonged closure will have catastrophic consequences.

Economic Consequences of the Border Closure

Afridi noted that the Torkham border has been closed for nearly a year, and according to his estimates, this situation has resulted in a decrease of $1.644 billion in exports and $817 million in imports. Additionally, he highlighted that the closure has led to a loss of 7.7 billion rupees in state tax revenue.

Social and Employment Impacts

The President of the Khyber Chamber pointed out that the ongoing situation has not only impacted bilateral trade but has also caused the loss of jobs for thousands of traders, shopkeepers, workers, and customs agents. He emphasized that these border restrictions threaten the livelihoods of local communities on both sides of the border.

Unfulfilled Government Promises and Plans

Afridi referred to the promises made by Pakistan’s Interior Minister, who had previously stated that a joint meeting in Peshawar would be held to address border issues and resume trade. However, according to Afridi, this promise has yet to be fulfilled. He reiterated that immediate action is needed to mitigate losses and reinstate trade.