The Termez–Hairaton border crossing points between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan have resumed operations, enabling passengers to travel safely and directly between the two countries. Visa requirements, however, remain in place, reports Chamber.uz, the official portal of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan.
Cross-border movement had been restricted since 2021, significantly complicating travel for Uzbek entrepreneurs heading to Afghanistan. Previously, reaching Mazar-i-Sharif—located just 75 km from Hairaton—required a full-day detour via Tajikistan. These restrictions have now been lifted, and the direct route is fully operational again.
The restoration of regular border crossing is expected to greatly benefit exporting companies. Uzbek exports to Afghanistan have grown steadily in recent years, and with this corridor reopened, trade volumes could reach $2.5 billion by 2026.
The Uzbek government is actively supporting entrepreneurs entering the Afghan market through targeted incentives:
- 100% reimbursement of warehouse maintenance costs for businesses establishing storage facilities in Hairaton or Mazar-i-Sharif;
- Full compensation for marketing and advertising expenses across all 34 Afghan provinces.
Authorities are urging businesses to seize this opportunity—to build local infrastructure, establish a foothold, and access a vast, underserved market of 50 million consumers, characterized by low competition and high demand for goods and services.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
3 декабря 2025 года