ISLAMABAD: Uzbekistan has officially reopened the Termez–Hairatan border crossing with Afghanistan, restoring the movement of citizens and trade flows after more than four years of closure.
The strategic bridge over the Amu Darya—closed since August 2021 following the Taliban’s return to power—once again allows passengers to travel directly and safely between the two countries.
The Uzbek Chamber of Commerce and Industry called the reopening a major step toward expanding regional connectivity, noting the crossing’s importance for freight corridors and passenger transport.
Before the closure, travelers could reach Mazar-e-Sharif from the Uzbek border town of Irytom in just one hour. The shutdown forced traders to reroute through Tajikistan, extending the journey to over 24 hours and raising transport costs.
With restrictions now lifted, Uzbek officials say the reopening will unlock new opportunities for exporters, with bilateral trade projected to reach $2.5 billion by 2026. Tashkent has introduced incentives to support market access in Afghanistan, including reimbursement of warehouse rent in Hairatan or Mazar-e-Sharif and compensation for advertising Uzbek products.
Visa rules remain unchanged. Citizens of both countries must still obtain proper entry documentation, although the Termez International Trade Center—where Afghan visitors can stay visa-free for up to 10 days in a designated duty-free zone—continues to operate separately.
Uzbek authorities say the border opening marks a renewed commitment to economic ties with Afghanistan, aiming to rebuild the direct trade routes that once formed a key part of Central Asia’s connectivity network.
