These items would become expensive in India if ties with Pakistan are severed; Check complete list here

Following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, tensions have heightened along the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district, prompting border villagers to clean and prepare their underground bunkers amid rising fears of escalation. After the Pahalgam terror attack, India has announced a series of steps to give a strong message to Pakistan for its support to cross-border terrorism, stating that the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960 will be held in abeyance and integrated checkpost Attari will be closed with immediate effect. The two main routes for trade and movement between India and Pakistan — the Attari and Wagah borders — have been closed.

It is to be noted that India imports several goods from Pakistan. If trade between the two countries comes to a complete halt, it will undoubtedly cripple Pakistan’s economy. However, it could also lead to higher prices for certain goods in India.

The first item likely to become expensive due to the trade shutdown is rock salt (sendha namak). Rock salt imported into India comes exclusively from Pakistan. During fasting periods and festivals, the demand for rock salt in India is significantly high. If trade with Pakistan is halted, the price of this essential item could rise significantly.

Another item is dry fruits. India also imports a large quantity of dry fruits from Pakistan. If business comes to a standstill, the prices of dry fruits in India could rise. However, India does not rely solely on Pakistan for its dry fruit supply — it has several alternative sources in this sector.

Optical lenses used in eyewear are another item that India imports in large quantities from Pakistan. If trade with Pakistan is disrupted, the prices of optical lenses might temporarily rise in India.

Apart from commodities such as rock salt, dry fruits, and optical lenses, India also imports cement, stones, lime, cotton, steel, organic chemicals, metal compounds, and leather goods from Pakistan.

However, the suspension of trade will hurt Pakistan more. It could further collapse Pakistan’s already struggling economy. India exports several goods to Pakistan, including organic chemicals, pharmaceuticals (medicines), plastics and plastic products, cotton, agricultural products (such as fresh fruits, vegetables, tea, coffee, and spices), sugar, oilseeds, dairy products, and animal feed.

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