Photo: Press Service of the Uzbekistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Uzbekistan has reopened the border crossing at the Termez–Hairatan bridge, restoring direct and secure passenger movement between the two countries. The announcement came from the press service of the Uzbekistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI).
Officials stressed that the reopening of the crossing over the Amu Darya River does not abolish the visa regime. Both Uzbek and Afghan citizens must still present valid travel documents.
The CCI recalled that the checkpoint ceased operations in August 2021, after the Taliban* took power in Afghanistan. The closure significantly complicated travel for Uzbek entrepreneurs. Previously, travelers could reach the Afghan city of Mazar-i-Sharif from Uzbekistan’s Ayritom customs post in about an hour by road — a distance of 75 kilometers. When the crossing shut down, they were forced to take a detour through Tajikistan, stretching travel time to more than a day.
“Now these restrictions have been lifted, and the road is open again,” the Chamber said.
Officials say the reopening creates new opportunities for businesses, especially exporters. Uzbekistan’s exports to Afghanistan have been steadily growing, and with the direct route restored, the figure is expected to reach $2.5 billion as early as 2026. Previously, both governments had aimed to increase bilateral trade to $2 billion in the near future.
The CCI added that entrepreneurs entering the Afghan market will receive support measures. The government will fully reimburse storage-rental costs in Hairatan or Mazar-i-Sharif. It will also compensate expenses for advertising Uzbek products targeted at the Afghan market.
Uzbek authorities are encouraging businesses to explore export opportunities in a neighboring country with a consumer base of 59 million, noting low competition and high demand.
