Border clashes escalate: Afghanistan blames Pakistan for closures; $200 million trade loss prompts search for new routes

Afghanistan’s Taliban government on Wednesday said that it is seeking alternative trade routes through Central Asia as border closures with Pakistan continue to cripple commerce and worsen economic losses. Acting commerce minister Nooruddin Azizi said that the country is losing nearly $200 million every month due to the shutdown of key crossings with Pakistan, accusing Islamabad of “politically motivated” restrictions. “Pakistan has frequently created obstacles, especially during the fruit export season,” Azizi said during a session in Kabul. “These closures are without any foundational or logical basis, and they are damaging to both countries.” At least five major crossings, including Torkham and Spin Boldak, have been closed for more than a month following a sharp deterioration i