Pakistan Bypasses Afghanistan with New Transit Corridors

DID Press: Pakistan has officially activated two new transit corridors through Iran and China, reducing its reliance on trade routes passing through Afghanistan and creating new alternatives for regional connectivity.

According to reports, the two corridors became operational in April 2026 through the Gabd–Rimdan border crossing in Iran and the Sost dry port in China. The move came after the indefinite closure of the Torkham and Spin Boldak–Chaman crossings in October 2025 due to security concerns and rising border tensions.

More than 14,000 tonnes of goods have reportedly been transported through the two routes so far, while the first reciprocal shipments between Bishkek and Karachi have also been carried out under the Quadrilateral Traffic in Transit Agreement (QTTA).

Analysts say the development could challenge Afghanistan’s traditional role as a key transit hub between Central and South Asia, as Pakistan seeks alternative trade routes amid growing regional security and geopolitical uncertainties.

At the same time, increasing concerns over potential disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz have highlighted the strategic importance of Gwadar Port as a possible gateway for Central Asian countries to access warm-water ports.