The Senate Standing Committee on Commerce has called for the immediate reopening of the Badini Border in an effort to boost bilateral trade and improve the livelihoods of local communities. The committee, led by Senator Anusha Rahman, convened in Islamabad to address challenges related to Pakistan’s trade with its neighboring country via the Badini Border, as well as proposals from the Quetta and Chaman Chambers of Commerce aimed at enhancing cross-border commerce.
During the meeting, committee members highlighted strong support from local chambers for reopening the border, which had been operational for just three months before its closure in 2021. Senator Anusha Rahman emphasized the urgency of resolving the issue, stating that reopening the border would facilitate trade and support local economies. The Secretary of Commerce informed the committee that the closure was a result of the Afghan government’s withdrawal of customs staff, and confirmed that funding for road infrastructure in the area has already been approved.
The committee urged the Ministry of Commerce and the Quetta Chamber of Commerce to engage with Afghan authorities for a prompt settlement to reopen the Badini Border. Expanding on regional trade, they also addressed measures to foster commerce with Iran, Afghanistan, and Russia. An amendment to the Barter Trade SRO was finalized, making it easier for individual traders, companies, and consortia to participate in barter deals. The changes allow both imports and exports, extend the net-off period from 90 to 120 days, and remove restrictions on the types of commodities that can be traded.
The Federal Minister for Commerce, Jam Kamal Khan, highlighted the importance of expanding private sector involvement in Pakistan-Iran trade to stimulate economic activity in border regions. However, the Quetta Chamber of Commerce raised concerns about the trade imbalance with Iran, noting that Pakistan imports around 150 items but exports only five.
Committee discussions also addressed customs valuation challenges in barter trade. Senator Anusha Rahman pointed out that, thanks to efforts by the Prime Minister’s office, a protocol for exporting maize and nuts has been approved, creating new opportunities for maize exports to China. Trade and Investment officials in Beijing noted that the relevant protocols are pending approval from the Joint Cooperation Committee, after which company registration processes will be initiated.
The committee also raised the need for a Pakistani Chamber of Commerce presence in Beijing to strengthen business ties with China. Senator Anusha Rahman urged the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry to establish a registered office in China to support Pakistani exporters in exploring new markets.
In further discussions, the possibility of constructing cold storage facilities and an LPG terminal at the Chaman Border was considered. Chambers of Commerce were advised to present project proposals to the Export Development Fund for the development of cold storage infrastructure.
The meeting was attended by Senators Bilal Ahmed Khan, Amir Waliuddin Chisti, Rahat Jamali, Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan, Secretary for Commerce Jawad Paul, and representatives from relevant government departments.
