Strategic Trade Shift

There is often a misconception that Pakistan cannot carry out trade with CARs without using routes passing through #Afghanistan or peace in Afghanistan is mandatory if #Pakistan wants to access CARs.

Fact of the matter is that situation in Afghanistan is unstable for many decades and it has further deteriorated under TTA rule.

Pakistan is no more dependent on #Afghanistan for its trade with CARs which is proven by the fact that Pakistan’s trade with CARs has increased from $ 100 million to $ 487 Million in three years, especially in last one year.

This trade partnership is witnessing an exuberant growth and by the end of 2024, our trade volume with Kazakhstan only is expected to increase manifolds.

Our trade has increased because of putting our own house in order and adopting smart, innovative and pro-active strategy.

Pakistan is using alternative routes for trade with CARs, Turkiye and Russia bypassing Afghanistan.

There are four routes currently being used to trade with CARs. The transit time to CARs is approximately 13 to 15 days.

China Route 1 . Khunjrab (Pakistan) – Kashgar (China) – Korday Akzhol (Kirgizstan) – Almaty (Kazakhstan).

China Route 2. Khunjarab (Pakistan), Dushanbe (Tajikistan) , Tashkant (Uzbekistan).

Iran Route 1. Taftan (Pakistan), Birjand (Iran), Sarakhs (Iran), Dushanbe (Tajikistan), Tashkant (Uzbekstan), Moscow (Russia).

Iran Route 2. Taftan (Pakistan), Qom (Iran), Baku(Azerbaijan), Istanbul (Türkiye).

In this regard, NLC has marvelous contributions.

In, continuation of TIR (Transports Internationaux Routiers) commonly known as International Road transportation services, NLC has successfully transported export goods to CARs, travelling over 4000 kms.

So far, they have conducted 240 + operations carrying Pharmaceutical, Textile, Leather, Surgical goods, Machinery & Chemicals.

NLC has employed civilian contractors and drivers who are paid handsome amounts in USD, adding revenue to national exchequer.

If #Afghanistan route is opened on terms mutually beneficial for all, Pakistan has no issues in using this route.

https://twitter.com/zarrar_11pk/status/1728646869663047899?s=48&t=G-cOBg7EkX_kBYa6eWDKdw