Pakistan Introduces One-Year Multiple Entry Visa for Afghan Drivers to Boost Cross-Border Trade

Strategic Insights -

The Pakistani government's decision to introduce a one-year multiple entry visa for Afghan drivers is expected to significantly boost cross-border trade and streamline border management between the two countries. Senior Vice President of the Pak-Afghan Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PAJCCI), Zia-ul-Haq Sarhadi, has welcomed the move, stating that it will help reduce hindrances in trade and transit trade by facilitating the passage of goods-laden trucks between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Pakistani government has introduced a one-year multiple entry visa for Afghan drivers to facilitate cross-border trade and streamline border management.
  • Zia-ul-Haq Sarhadi, Senior Vice President of PAJCCI, has welcomed the decision, citing its potential to reduce hindrances in trade and transit trade.
  • Prior to this policy, Afghan drivers had to obtain a TAD-1 document with a one-year validity, which initially had a fee of $100 but increased to $500 and $1,000 during processing, creating problems for drivers and traders.
  • Sarhadi suggested implementing a fixed fee for the new visa issuance policy and developing a desk at the Torkhem border point for visa issuance and renewal.
  • He also recommended reviving the 'Red Pass' policy, which was introduced in the late 1980s, to expedite cargo traveling procedures and reduce delays.
  • Sarhadi emphasized the need to avoid time-consuming visits to embassies for application submission and other formalities, which may cause delays in transportation of import-export bound goods.

Statistics:

  • The new visa policy aims to facilitate cross-border trade and streamline border management between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
  • The initial fee for the TAD-1 document was $100, but increased to $500 and $1,000 during processing.
  • The Torkham border point is a critical crossing point for trade and transit between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
  • The 'Red Pass' policy was introduced in the late 1980s to expedite cargo traveling procedures and reduce delays in trade.

Sources:

  • Press statement issued by Ziaul Haq Sarhadi, Senior Vice President, Pak-Afghan Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PAJCCI).
  • Executive Member, Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI).