Protests by Imran Khan supporters disrupt trade with Afghanistan

Pakistani media reported that due to protests by supporters of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party and road blockages, the transportation of export and import goods between Pakistan and Afghanistan has been disrupted.

Dawn newspaper reported on Wednesday, November 27, that trucks carrying fresh fruits, coal, and soap from Afghanistan have been stuck in different parts of Peshawar.

Mujibullah Shinwari, the head of the Torkham Customs Agents Association, said: “The imported coal and soap were being transported to cement factories and other industries in various cities of Punjab, while Afghan grapes and apples were being sent to fruit markets in Islamabad and Rawalpindi.”

According to the head of the Torkham Customs Agents Association, before the road blockages, an average of 300 vehicles carrying goods were being exported to Afghanistan daily, while 250 vehicles carrying goods from Afghanistan entered Pakistan each day.

Reports indicate that the daily number of vehicles crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan has decreased to just 150 vehicles.

The federal government of Pakistan has blocked nearly all highways and roads leading to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa by using shipping containers.

Local Pakistani officials stated that this disruption has caused significant losses to trade between the two countries.

This disruption in trade highlights the growing impact of political protests on economic activities in the region. The halted transport of goods is affecting both countries, particularly the movement of essential goods such as coal, fruits, and industrial supplies.

If the road blockages continue, it could lead to further delays in the supply chain, hurting both local economies and larger trade relations. Both governments may need to negotiate and find a way to restore transportation routes to prevent further economic damage.

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