Uzbekistan has reopened the Turmoz-Hairatan bridge with Afghanistan after a closure lasting over four years. Passengers can now travel directly and safely between the two countries.
In a statement, the Uzbek Chamber of Commerce and Industry highlighted the significance of the bridge over the Amu Darya for enhancing passenger traffic and expanding trade ties. The crossing had been closed since August 24, 2021, when the Islamic Emirate returned to power, complicating trade between Kabul and Tashkent.
Prior to the closure, it was possible for citizens to travel from the border point of Irytom in Uzbekistan to Mazar-e-Sharif, Afghanistan, covering the 75 kilometers in just one hour. However, the closure forced traders to take a longer route through Tajikistan, extending travel time to over a day and night.
With the recent reopening, the Uzbek Chamber of Commerce and Industry announced that the previous restrictions have been lifted, allowing for renewed trade activities.
Officials from Uzbekistan report that the reopening will generate more opportunities for traders and exporters from both countries. Trade between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan is expected to grow significantly, with projections reaching $2.5 billion by 2026.
Previously, both countries aimed to elevate bilateral trade to $2 billion. To facilitate this, the Uzbek government is providing special privileges to traders entering the Afghan market, including full reimbursement of warehouse rent in Hairatan or Mazar-e-Sharif and compensation for advertising costs for Uzbek products in Afghanistan.
