Pakistan-Afghanistan Torkham border inauguration to facilitate cement trade

Pakistan's Prime Minister, Imran Khan, along with top officials of government of Afghanistan, are expected to inaugurate round-the-clock operation of Torkham border crossing between Afghanistan and Pakistan today, subject to security clearance, etc. This is expected to support higher volumes of imports and exports, including cement, between the two countries.
 
The Pakistan cement industry, particularly factories located in northern area of Pakistan are pinning their hopes that the opening of border trade at the north eestern site of country will greatly help the export of cement from Pakistan to Afghanistan.

Both governments would also discuss the prospects of Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) and renegotiate Afghanistan Pakistan Transit Trade Agreement (APTTA), to improve bilateral trade.
 
Pakistan's export of cement to Afghanistan fell from 4Mt in 2010-11 to 1.72Mt in 2018-19 (June-July) due to unrest in Kabul, border issues and competition with Iranian cement. If the border is opened, it will largely help Cherat Cement Company, which is located in the close proximity of the border.