Pakistan halts Iran border trade as 2,000 trucks remain stranded

Pakistan has suspended commercial trade through two primary border crossings with Iran, leaving approximately 2,000 trucks stranded and sparking concerns over a potential energy and food supply crisis. The closure affects the Gabd-Rimdan and Taftan crossings, which serve as critical conduits for liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and essential food items. Security and Smuggling Concerns The Ministry of Commerce issued a memorandum on Friday, 16 October, withdrawing a previous trade order from earlier in the month, effectively halting commercial operations. Shahid Rind, adviser to the Balochistan chief minister, stated on Sunday, 18 October, that the suspension is necessary to strengthen security protocols, curb smuggling, and implement a more effective border management system. While commercial trade is halted, passenger movement through the Rimdan-Gabd crossing reportedly remains operational. Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baqaei attributed the disruption to "technical issues" and confirmed that bilateral consultations are underway to restore normal traffic. Impact on Energy and Commodities The Quetta Chamber of Commerce and Industry warned that 2,000 trucks carrying rice, fresh fruit, and energy products are currently immobilised. The Gabd-Rimdan crossing is a vital energy artery, with data indicating that more than 4,000 tonnes of LPG enter Pakistan daily through this specific route. Energy sector representatives warned that an extended closure will likely…