Pakistan Activates China-Iran Trade Routes Amid Tensions With Afghanistan

DID Press: Officials in Pakistan say the country has operationalized alternative trade corridors to Central Asia through China and Iran, reducing reliance on transit routes in Afghanistan.

According to Pakistani media reports, the decision follows mounting security concerns, repeated border closures, and rising transit costs along Afghan routes. Authorities stated that the new corridors have shortened delivery times and improved logistical predictability for regional trade.

In the eastern corridor, Pakistan is now connected to China via the Khunjerab Pass, providing access to markets in Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, and Tajikistan. Officials describe this route as faster and more reliable than previous options.

Meanwhile, on the western front, the activation of the Gabd–Rimdan Border Crossing in April 2026 has enabled cargo shipments onward to Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. The first commercial consignment via this corridor has already been delivered to Tashkent.

Pakistani officials added that although the Iran route may be slightly longer in distance, it offers greater stability, lower insurance costs, and reduced informal payments compared with transit through Afghanistan.

Trade routes in Afghanistan have experienced repeated disruptions following recurring political and security tensions.