QUETTA:
To bolster trade between Pakistan and Iran, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has issued an order to keep the Pakistan-Iran Trade Gate at Taftan open 24 hours a day for freight vehicles. The directive mandates the round-the-clock operation.
The Collectorate of Customs Enforcement Quetta, along with the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), chief collector of customs, assistant collectors, and the Quetta Chamber of Commerce and Industry, have been instructed to implement the necessary measures for this transition.
Leaders from the Quetta Chamber of Commerce and Industry, including President Haji Abdullah Achakzai, Senior Vice President Haji Agha Gul Khilji, and Vice President Syed Abdul Ahad Agha, expressed their satisfaction and joy over this development.
They emphasized that the continuous operation of the trade gate fulfills a longstanding demand by traders and transporters. The continuous operation, they hoped, is expected to significantly enhance the movement of fresh produce and other goods, reducing spoilage and delays.
This change is anticipated to streamline the bilateral trade process, ensuring the uninterrupted movement of cargo vehicles. Previously, the gate’s limited hours caused significant congestion, delaying vehicle clearance for weeks and adversely impacting legitimate trade.
The chamber had persistently advocated for this change during annual meetings of the Pakistan-Iran Joint Trade Committee and other forums.
With the 24/7 operation at the Taftan trade gate, both countries are expected to see a positive impact on their import and export sectors, helping to meet trade goals and strengthen economic ties between the two Islamic nations, said an official statement.
The Taftan border crossing, located in Balochistan, serves as a crucial trade route between Pakistan and Iran. Its strategic significance lies in its ability to facilitate the movement of goods, particularly perishable items that require timely transportation to maintain quality.
The 24/7 operation of this crossing is seen as a vital step in addressing logistical challenges and fostering a more efficient trade environment.
Historically, limited operating hours at the Taftan crossing led to significant bottlenecks, adversely affecting trade and economic activities in the region.
By keeping the crossing open around the clock, authorities aim to mitigate these issues, promoting smoother trade flows and enhancing bilateral economic cooperation.
This move is also expected to attract more business and investment opportunities in the border regions of both countries, further contributing to their economic development.
