Following the terror attack in Pahalgam, which killed 26 people, India’s decision to suspend cargo movement through the Attari-Wagah border has cast a shadow over dry fruit imports from Afghanistan. While current supplies remain unaffected, experts warn that prices may jump significantly once the existing stock depletes — a situation that could begin to unfold in just over a week.
Afghanistan is one of India’s key dry fruit suppliers, especially for almonds, raisins, and pistachios. Between April 2024 and January 2025, India imported goods worth $358 million from Afghanistan, with dry fruits making up a substantial portion of that trade. These goods typically enter India through the Attari-Wagah land route, which has now been temporarily shut amid rising hostilities with Pakistan.
Supply stability under threat
Rajiv Batra, president of the Khari Baoli traders’ association in Delhi, stated that prices in India remain stable at the moment due to shipments already in transit. However, this stability is likely to be short-lived. Within 10 days, as stock begins to run low, prices in the national capital and other markets could rise by as much as 20 per cent.
The sudden halt has disrupted a well-established supply chain. Since most Afghan exports reach India via Pakistan, the suspension has effectively choked a major trade corridor, leaving Indian importers scrambling for alternatives.
New routes under consideration
To counter the disruption, India is exploring new trade routes through countries like the UAE, Iran, and Iraq. While these alternatives may ease some pressure on supply, they are unlikely to fully compensate for the loss of the Attari route in the immediate future. Traders say logistical challenges and higher transportation costs via these countries may also push prices further.
The Attari border closure is one of several measures India has taken in response to the Pahalgam attack, signaling a tougher diplomatic stance towards Pakistan. This geopolitical fallout is now expected to impact consumer markets, particularly ahead of the festive season when dry fruit demand typically rises.
