Impact of Attari-Wagah Border Closure: Afghan Dry Fruit Trade Faces Price Surge in India

Kapurthala: Following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, the Indian government has imposed strict measures against Pakistan, leading to the closure of the Attari-Wagah border. This has significantly disrupted the dry fruit trade from Afghanistan to India, with potential price hikes of 10-25% on the way.

Despite years of conflict, Afghanistan remains India’s top source for dry fruits. The Federation of Grocers and Dry Fruit Traders reports that since the border closure on April 22, no trucks have been arriving from Kandahar with dry fruits. Currently, around 200 trucks are waiting at the Wagah border, unable to enter India.

These trucks usually carry 35 to 40 tons of dry fruits. Most come from Kandahar, with some from Kabul, but the recent border restrictions prevent them from reaching Indian markets. Typically, 90% of dry fruits enter India in January and February, as there are no proper storage facilities in Afghanistan.

Previously, about 15 to 20 trucks would arrive daily at Attari during the summer off-season. This number could jump to 40 to 60 trucks during the peak season from mid-July to Diwali. Now, with the attack, traders face not only loss of lives but also financial setbacks.

After India canceled various agreements, including those for transport routes, Pakistan has left around 200 trucks stuck along the way. This situation is severely impacting dry fruit trade. Just last week, prices surged by Rs 100 to Rs 400 per kilogram. Retailers note that summer usually sees lower demand for dry fruits; however, if the weather were cooler, prices could have soared even higher.

According to a local seller, the Pahalgam attack has led to significant disruptions. Shopkeepers mention that many dry fruits typically come from Afghanistan, via Pakistan, and are now trapped due to these restrictions. In a surprising turn, this is the first time they’ve seen summer prices rise for dry fruits. Consequently, prices for sweets may also increase in the coming days, leading to higher expenses for consumers even outside of festive seasons.

In fact, recent surveys show that the sudden spike in prices is causing concern among shoppers, as many were hoping for relief during this off-peak time. As traders brace for possible long-term impacts, the community is left anxious about future trade relations.

Learn more about the Indo-Pak trade dynamics.

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