Pakistan has resumed cross-border commercial trade with Iran through the Gabd-Rimdan crossing in Balochistan after a seven-day shutdown disrupted cargo movement, stranded transporters and raised concerns over liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) supplies ahead of winter.
Commercial traffic restarted on Saturday at the crossing, also known as Gate 250, in Gwadar district. Officials allowed the movement of import and export consignments covered by consignment notes issued on or before October 16, according to media reports.
Mir Naveed Jan Kalmati, head of the Gwadar Chamber of Commerce and Industry, confirmed that the crossing had reopened, allowing trucks and other commercial vehicles to move in both directions between Pakistan and Iran.
The reopening is expected to provide relief to traders and transport operators affected by the closure. The resumption of cargo movement could also help restore LPG supplies, as demand for the fuel typically increases during the colder months, while easing pressure on food and energy costs.
Pakistan’s Ministry of Commerce ordered the crossing closed on October 17 without publicly disclosing the reason. However, security concerns were believed to have prompted the suspension.
The situation escalated on Thursday when unidentified gunmen attacked trucks parked near the Gabd-Rimdan crossing. Dozens of vehicles were reportedly set ablaze, while several others were damaged.
Following a review of the security situation, local authorities permitted trade to resume on Saturday. Additional security personnel have been deployed to protect 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 relations and regional developments.
Pakistan and Iran share a 909-km border between Iran’s Sistan and Baluchestan province and Pakistan’s Balochistan province. The border crossings serve as important trade corridors for the movement of goods between the two countries, making their uninterrupted operation significant for regional commerce and supply chains.