Afghanistan’s Taliban government has imposed a strict ban on the import of medicines from Pakistan, citing poor quality and frequent trade disruptions. The decision, announced by state media Alemarah News, directs Afghan traders to terminate existing contracts with Pakistani suppliers within three months and to seek alternative sources from other countries. Officials said the move aims to protect Afghanistan’s economic interests and safeguard the rights of local businesses. Deputy Prime Minister Abdul Ghani Baradar urged business leaders in Kabul to reduce dependence on Pakistan and explore new trade routes. The ban comes amid deteriorating relations between the two neighbors. Afghanistan currently imports pharmaceuticals from Pakistan, India, Turkey, and Bangladesh, with an estimated annual import value of around one billion dollars before the Taliban’s return to power in 2021.