QUETTA, April 15, 2026: Pakistan has begun using a new trade route through Iran to reach Central Asian markets, reducing its reliance on Afghanistan for transit.
The development comes after the operationalization of the Gabd Border Terminal near Gwadar, which is now facilitating international trade under a modern transit system.
Gabd is a border crossing point located in the Gwadar, serving as a key trade gateway between Pakistan and Iran. It connects to the Rimdan border terminal in Iran’s Sistan and Baluchestan province, positioned approximately 70km west of Gwadar port and 120km east of Iran’s Chabahar port.
Under this arrangement, goods from Karachi are being transported through Iran and onward to destinations such as Tashkent, marking a significant shift in Pakistan’s regional trade strategy.
Officials say the new route provides a more reliable and efficient alternative, helping reduce delays, lower transportation costs, and ensure smoother trade flows.
The move is also aimed at minimizing disruptions linked to traditional transit routes and strengthening Pakistan’s connectivity with Central Asia.
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much easier would be to connect Pakistan through Wakhan to Central Asia. The road from Central Asia to Wakhan already exists. Pakistan must speed up work on the Mastuj-Baroghil road .