Pakistan is witnessing a sharp spike in fruit and vegetable prices, while poultry rates have plunged across Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa following the suspension of bilateral trade with Afghanistan after recent border clashes.
According to media reports, Pakistan imports essential produce such as tomatoes, onions, fruits, and large quantities of dry fruits from Afghanistan via road routes. With border crossings closed, supplies have dwindled — pushing market prices sharply upward.
A vegetable wholesaler explained that recent floods had already damaged Pakistan’s domestic crops, leaving many regions heavily dependent on Afghan imports. “A lot of vegetable and fruit crops were wasted due to flooding, so we were relying heavily on Afghan produce,” he said.
In contrast, poultry prices have seen a steep decline. With exports to Afghanistan halted, a surplus of poultry products has flooded the local market, dragging prices down in Punjab and KP.
The Taliban administration in Afghanistan reportedly instructed its traders to halt commerce with Pakistan. In response, Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif recently claimed that the lack of trade would “eventually benefit the Pakistani people,” despite short-term disruptions.
At least five major border crossings — including Torkham and Spin Boldak — have remained shut for over a month following armed skirmishes, worsening tensions and deepening the economic impact on both sides.