Pakistan-Iran Trade Resumes: Key border crossing reopens after attack; LPG relief expected

Following a week-long closure due to security threats, Pakistan has reopened the Gabd-Rimdan border crossing with Iran.

Pakistan has resumed cross-border trade with Iran through a major border point in Balochistan after a seven-day shutdown disrupted cargo movement, left transporters stranded and raised concerns about LPG availability as winter approaches. Commercial traffic restarted on Saturday at the Gabd-Rimdan crossing in Gwadar district, Dawn reported.

Officials permitted the movement of import and export consignments carrying consignment notes issued on or before October 16, according to the news agency PTI. Mir Naveed Jan Kalmati, head of the Gwadar chamber of commerce and industry, confirmed that the crossing, also called Gate 250, was operational again.

Kalmati said trucks and other vehicles carrying commercial goods were now permitted to travel in both directions between Pakistan and Iran. Welcoming the reopening, he said it would offer relief to traders and transport operators who had been unable to move their cargo during the closure. The restoration of supplies could also help address Pakistan's LPG shortage and ease pressure on rising food and energy costs.

Security concerns preceded reopening

The crossing was shut on October 17 by Pakistan's commerce ministry, which did not publicly disclose the reason for the suspension. However, security concerns were believed to have prompted the move. The disruption affected LPG supplies at a time when demand for the fuel generally increases during the colder months.

The situation worsened on Thursday when unidentified gunmen attacked trucks parked near the Gabd-Rimdan crossing. Dozens of vehicles were reportedly set ablaze, while several others sustained damage. Local authorities reviewed the security situation before allowing trade to resume on Saturday.

Additional security personnel have been deployed to safeguard commercial convoys travelling through the area. The reopening also follows a visit to Iran earlier this week by Pakistan Army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir, who held discussions with Iranian leaders on bilateral ties and regional developments.

Pakistan and Iran share a 909-km frontier between Iran's Sistan and Baluchestan province and Pakistan's Balochistan province. The border crossings are vital channels for trade and the movement of goods between the neighbouring countries.