With the recent geopolitical changes that have occurred in Afghanistan over the past week with the Taliban now in control, we would like to provide an update on viable trade routes.
Pakistan is one of the most strategically, logistically, and economically viable transit routes for cargo to Afghanistan.
- Trade and supplies destined to the northern side of Afghanistan are covered through the Torkham border.
- Trade and supplies destined to the southern side of Afghanistan are covered through the Chaman border.
Both borders were closed last week but now are open for normal transit trade cargo to Afghanistan.
Please keep in mind, although the borders are open, there is a delay of about 2 weeks in the processing of customs and deliveries due to changing government policies and the shortage of Afghan officials within varying departments.
Normally, we recommend all our customers and partners to use shipper-owned containers when sending any aid or non-commercial cargo to Afghanistan due to the lengthy customs and duty exemption processes that can take up to 4-5 weeks or more.
In the coming weeks, if you have any shipments destined for Afghanistan please do not book any cargo without properly working, pre-planning, and consultation as to how to prepare documents to avoid delays and penalties in customs at Karachi.
Things are very fluid in Afghanistan, and the country has complicated and complex customs procedures to follow.
As the situation evolves, we will continue to share updates. In the meantime, should you have any questions or concerns, please contact Michael Ford.
