Despite taxes and duties, traders in Chaman are facing obstacles in importing onions from Afghanistan, raising concerns about a shortage and further price increases in Pakistan.

Importers reported that trucks loaded with onions and grapes are being halted at the Gurdang and Sheela Bagh check posts, with an additional demand of Rs5,000 for clearance.

Traders are calling for immediate government intervention to facilitate onion imports, as prices in Pakistan have already reached Rs150 per kilo, and any disruption in imports could lead to even higher prices.

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India had indefinitely extended its ban on onion exports, leading to increased prices in Pakistan, where low-grade onions are now selling at Rs250 per kilogram. The ban, originally imposed in December 2023 has caused significant price hikes in several countries reliant on Indian onions in March 2023.