Breaking: DP World Signs Landmark Deal to Modernise Afghanistan‘s Torkham and Hairatan Borders
Table of Contents
- 1. Breaking: DP World Signs Landmark Deal to Modernise Afghanistan’s Torkham and Hairatan Borders
- 2. Why the Crossings Matter
- 3. Scope of the DP World Agreement
- 4. Economic Impact and Regional Trade
- 5. Local Employment and Skills Development
- 6. Future Outlook
- 7. Evergreen Insights: The Long‑Term Value of Border Modernisation
- 8. Does DP World typically announce major port and terminal deals publicly?
DP World has inked a public‑private partnership with Afghanistan’s government to overhaul the country’s two most pivotal land border facilities – Torkham on the Pakistan side and Hairatan on the Uzbek side. the agreement is a cornerstone of Afghanistan’s push for Afghanistan border modernization and its ambition to become a key transit corridor linking Central and South Asia.
Why the Crossings Matter
Torkham and Hairatan together channel billions of dollars in trade each year. Official figures show that over US$1.6 billion in bilateral trade with Pakistan passed through Torkham in 2024 alone, while Hairatan serves as the main gateway to Central Asian markets.
Scope of the DP World Agreement
The partnership, formalised by Afghan deputy Minister of Revenue and Customs Alhaj Mufti Abdul Mateen Saeed and DP World Executive Vice President Nasser Al Neyadi, mandates a full technical and financial feasibility study before any concession is granted. Anticipated upgrades include new cargo‑handling equipment, expanded storage yards, and the digitisation of customs and immigration processes.
Economic Impact and Regional Trade
Modernising these gateways is expected to reduce clearance times, enhance security, and boost the predictability of cross‑border flows. Analysts project that streamlined operations could lift the volume of goods moving through Afghanistan by up to 30 % within five years, reinforcing the nation’s role in emerging regional supply chains.
Local Employment and Skills Development
DP World has pledged to prioritise Afghan hiring and on‑the‑job training. The firm will collaborate with local partners throughout planning and operational phases, while the Afghan authorities retain oversight of customs, immigration, security and regulatory duties.
Future Outlook
Successful implementation could position Afghanistan as a resilient trade corridor, fostering economic stability and creating pathways to broader regional integration.
| Crossing | Key Partner | 2024 Trade Volume (USD) | Planned Upgrades |
|---|---|---|---|
| Torkham (Pakistan) | DP World | $1.6 billion+ | Digital customs, expanded lanes, cargo‑handling systems |
| Hairatan (Uzbekistan) | DP World | Billions (estimated) | Warehouse expansion, automated inspection, e‑clearance |
How will these upgrades affect small‑scale traders who rely on the border crossings? What additional steps can neighboring countries take to harmonise procedures with Afghanistan’s new system?
Evergreen Insights: The Long‑Term Value of Border Modernisation
Investments in border infrastructure yield benefits far beyond immediate trade gains. Efficient corridors attract foreign direct investment, stimulate logistics hubs, and encourage the development of ancillary services such as warehousing, finance and insurance. Over time,
Does DP World typically announce major port and terminal deals publicly?
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