Chandigarh : The resumption of trade with Pakistan through the Attari-Wagah land route is a significant election issue for traders and industry in Amritsar. They believe that reviving cross-border trade will not only benefit farmers, transporters, and laborers, but also boost the economy of Amritsar. Prior to the suspension of bilateral trade ties in 2019, the trade volume between India and Pakistan through the land route was approximately Rs.5,000 crore per annum.
Traders in Amritsar emphasize that restarting trade with Pakistan will not only enhance the local economy but will also lead to the creation of more job opportunities. The local industry has expressed to candidates from major political parties that the revival of trade is essential for the progress and advancement of Amritsar.
The industrialist Rajdeep Uppal from Amritsar stated that the government must resume trade with Pakistan due to the absence of a manufacturing industry in Amritsar. He highlighted that trade with Pakistan served as a crucial pillar for Amritsar's economy, benefiting the region economically and acting as a significant confidence-building measure for peace.
Currently, trade between India and Pakistan through the Attari-Wagah land route has been suspended since 2019. However, imports from Afghanistan continue to flow through the route. The halt in trade was a result of India imposing a 200 percent customs duty on products imported from Pakistan post the Pulwama attack in February 2019, and Pakistan's suspension of bilateral trade with India in August 2019 following the revocation of Article 370.
The resumption of trade with Pakistan is anticipated to bring forth extensive work opportunities at the Integrated Check Post in the border district, benefiting porters, truck drivers, and other industry stakeholders. Traders highlighted the various goods that were previously exchanged between the two nations and emphasized the benefits that would accrue to farmers with the revival of trade.
The potential for trade growth and cross-border movement between India and Pakistan remains significant, with Amritsar serving as a pivotal city with rail, road, and air connectivity. The resumption of trade is viewed favorably by exporters and industry leaders for its positive impact on the economy and overall regional development.