KANDAHAR CITY (Pajhwok): Grape traders in southern Kandahar province have expressed serious concerns over Pakistan’s high customs tariffs on Afghan fresh fruits, urging the caretaker government to take urgent action.
Kandahar is one of Afghanistan’s leading grape-producing regions, known for its dry climate, fertile soil, and traditional horticultural practices, resulting in the highest quality and largest quantity of grapes in the country.
Annually, around 200,000 tonnes of grapes are harvested here, most of which are exported to Pakistan and beyond through the Chaman crossing.
Rahmatullah, a grape trader, explained that before last year, the customs duty on a 20-tonne grape consignment ranged from 400,000 to 500,000 Pakistani rupees. This rate has now surged to 1.4 million rupees, with no reduction this year.
He added, “Last year, high tariffs caused losses exceeding 20 million afghanis. This year, we do not expect any profit. Additionally, illegal fees of 100,000 to 140,000 rupees per truck are extorted at the Chaman, adding to our burden.”
Mohammadullah, who leases grape orchards annually, said his business has faced continuous losses over the past year. “I leased orchards again this year hoping to recover my investment and provide employment to hundreds, but now everything is at risk — this is our livelihood,” he said.
Grape picker Syedullah noted, “When tariffs were lower and grapes sold well, we earned 300 to 350 afghanis daily. Now, with the market in decline, earnings have dropped below 200 Afghanis.”
Haji Nani Agha, head of Kandahar’s Fresh Fruits Union, said that the situation has caused severe financial losses for both traders and orchard leaseholders. “We have raised the issue multiple times with authorities but it remains unresolved. Discussions continue, yet no practical steps have been taken,” he told Pajhwok Afghan News.
Afghan officials have indicated plans to implement equal tariffs on Afghan and Pakistani fruit exports.
Deputy Director of the Chamber of Commerce and Investment, Eng. Abdul Baqi Bina, said talks were held with the Pakistani consul before this season’s exports. “They assured us the matter would be raised with higher authorities to find a solution,” he added.
Agriculture Department spokesman Mohammad Hanif Haqmal confirmed Kandahar produces around 200,000 tonnes of grapes annually, though last year’s yield dropped to 190,000 tonnes due to low rainfall and pests. Improved conditions this year are expected to increase production beyond 200,000 tonnes.
During a recent visit to Kandahar, Deputy Minister of Commerce and Industry Mullah Ahmadullah Zahid assured local traders that discussions with Pakistan regarding preferential tariff arrangements are underway.
kk/sa