Pakistan has temporarily suspended commercial activities at two key border crossings with Iran, Gabd-Rimdan in Gwadar and Taftan in Chagai, due to security concerns, anti-smuggling efforts and measures to improve border management.
The decision has raised concerns among traders over financial losses, stranded shipments and possible disruptions to essential supplies.
Shahid Rind, adviser to the Balochistan chief minister on media and political affairs, said the suspension was temporary. He explained that the move was intended to address security threats, curb smuggling and improve the management of border crossings.
Officials have said discussions are underway to resolve the matter and resume trade activities.
Pakistan’s Ministry of Commerce issued a memorandum on Friday, withdrawing an earlier order dated October 3 with immediate effect. The suspension affected commercial operations at both crossings, while Pakistani and Iranian officials gave differing accounts of the disruption.
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The suspension has caused concern among traders in Balochistan, who fear that prolonged restrictions could result in significant financial losses.
Abdul Ghafoor Hoth, chairman of a Pakistani traders’ organisation, said around 500 vehicles carrying Iranian goods enter Pakistan through the Gabd-Rimdan crossing each day. A similar number of vehicles transport Pakistani goods into Iran through the same route.
Arab News also reported that more than 2,000 containers carrying goods were stranded at Gabd-Rimdan, citing a former official of the Quetta Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
The crossing serves as an important trade route for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and other commodities, including rice and fresh produce.
Reports indicate that more than 4,000 tonnes of LPG were being imported through Gabd-Rimdan daily. The suspension has raised concerns about possible supply problems if the restrictions remain in place for an extended period. However, the reported import volume does not confirm that domestic LPG supplies have already been affected.