Border checkpoints on the Termez–Hairaton bridge, which connects Uzbekistan and Afghanistan, have resumed operations. Passengers can now travel directly and safely between the two countries, while the visa requirement remains in place. The information was reported by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan.
Information from the Chamber
It is known that in 2021 civilian movement was restricted. This significantly complicated business trips to Afghanistan: to reach Mazar-i-Sharif, located 75 km from the Ayritom free economic zone in Termez (about one hour away), entrepreneurs had to take a one-day detour through Tajikistan. These restrictions have now been lifted, and the route is open.
“Restoring border-crossing procedures will create significant convenience for exporting companies. Exports to Afghanistan have been steadily growing in recent years, and with the opening of this route, there is every chance to increase export volume to 2.5 billion dollars by 2026,” the Chamber reports.
According to the Chamber, the state supports entrepreneurs with the following benefits:
- Storage costs for goods in warehouses opened in Hairaton or Mazar-i-Sharif are reimbursed at 100 percent.
- Advertising costs in all 34 provinces of Afghanistan are fully compensated.
This support makes it easier for entrepreneurs to enter the Afghan market and organize necessary infrastructure.
For more details, entrepreneurs can call: +99878 150 60 06
Potential risks
The Chamber of Commerce does not mention any risks; on the contrary, it encourages building infrastructure and capturing a large market of 59 million consumers with low competition and high demand. However, we decided to address the risks.
- Security inside Afghanistan
Despite the restoration of direct travel, certain regions of Afghanistan remain unstable and dangerous. Travel there may expose entrepreneurs and their staff to risks of attacks, kidnappings, or other criminal incidents. - Political and legal risks
Changes in visa policy or border control may occur suddenly. Possible issues include problems with documents, detentions at the border, or conflicts with local authorities. - Economic and financial risks
Investments in warehouses, logistics, and advertising may not pay off if demand turns out lower than expected. Currency fluctuations or instability of the local currency may also affect profitability. - Logistical and transport risks
Road conditions, customs delays, or blocked routes may complicate travel across the border and transportation of goods through Afghanistan. - Reputational risk and legal violations
Doing business in unstable regions carries a high risk of encountering corruption, forced payments, or violations of legal norms, which may affect a company’s reputation.
We also decided to issue a reminder for entrepreneurs intending to capture the nearly 60-million market of the neighboring country.
Precautionary measures for entrepreneurs
1. Employee safety
- Provide safety briefings before travel.
- Use security or escorts if necessary, especially in unstable areas.
- Limit travel to remote and potentially dangerous regions.
2. Documents and visas
- Check current visa requirements and document validity.
- Carry all necessary permits, licenses, and export documents.
- Keep copies of all documents both on paper and digitally.
3. Financial protection
- Plan the budget considering possible delays, extra fees, and currency fluctuations.
- Use reliable payment channels and insure cargo.
- Keep detailed records of expenses for logistics, warehouses, and advertising.
4. Logistics and transport
- Study alternative routes in case the main route is closed or blocked.
- Work with reliable carriers and logistics companies.
- Ensure cargo safety: packaging, labeling, insurance.
5. Legal protection
- Familiarize yourself with local laws, tax, and customs regulations.
- When necessary, sign contracts with local partners through notarized documents.
- Avoid questionable schemes and bribes to stay within the law and protect your reputation.
6. Information and monitoring
- Monitor news about security in Afghanistan and the border situation.
- Maintain contact with your embassies or consulates in Afghanistan.
- Use local sources and contacts for up-to-date information about route conditions.