Uzbekistan has reopened its border crossing with Afghanistan at the Termez–Hairatan Bridge for the first time since August 2021, allowing citizens of both countries to travel directly and safely once again, the country’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) announced.

Fergana News reports that according to the CCI, the resumption of passenger traffic across the Amu Darya Bridge does not lift existing visa requirements — both Uzbek and Afghan nationals must still obtain proper documentation to cross the border.

The crossing was closed in August 2021 following the Taliban’s return to power in Afghanistan. The closure had significantly complicated travel for Uzbek entrepreneurs. While the journey from the Ayritom checkpoint to Mazar-e Sharif previously took about an hour, traders were forced to reroute through Tajikistan, turning the trip into a more than 24-hour ordeal.

Now, with restrictions lifted, the route has reopened. Officials say the restoration of direct access will provide new opportunities for business, particularly in export sectors. Uzbekistan aims to boost the bilateral trade with Afghanistan to $2.5 billion by 2026, up from a previously stated goal of $2 billion.

To support businesses entering the Afghan market, the government is offering incentives, including reimbursement for warehouse rentals in Hairatan and Mazar-e Sharif, as well as covering costs for promoting Uzbek products.

The CCI is reportedly encouraging entrepreneurs to actively explore opportunities in the Afghan market, which has around 59 million consumers, low competition, and high demand.