Uzbekistan, Afghanistan restore key border link

Uzbekistan and Afghanistan have officially resumed operations at the Termez–Hairatan border crossing, reopening the route for citizens of both countries.

The announcement was made by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan, Caliber.Az reports, citing Uzbek media.

The checkpoints on the Friendship Bridge over the Amu Darya River, which had been closed since 2021, are now fully operational. The Chamber highlighted that restoring direct land connectivity will simplify travel in both directions and create new opportunities for trade and export development.

Authorities confirmed that visa requirements for citizens of both countries remain in effect. Since the crossing’s closure, business travel to Afghanistan had become considerably more complicated. Despite the relatively short distance of approximately 75 kilometres from Ayritom to Mazar-i-Sharif, travelers were forced to detour through Tajikistan, resulting in journeys that could take up to a full day.

The reopening of the direct route is expected to streamline logistics for Uzbek exporters. The Chamber of Commerce estimates that trade volumes with Afghanistan could reach $2.5 billion by 2026.

To further support businesses entering the Afghan market, the government has introduced incentive measures, including full reimbursement of warehouse rental costs in Hairatan and Mazar-i-Sharif, as well as coverage of advertising expenses across all Afghan regions.

By Vafa Guliyeva