Tensions between India, Pak affects unique trade

The tensions between India and Pakistan in the wake of the Mumbai terror attacks have affected a unique form of petty trade transacted through people travelling between the two countries.

The practice -- known as the "done-trade" business in Pakistan and involving the transfer of small quantities of items like nuts, cigarettes, betel leaves, sarees and cosmetics -- has been hit hard by a drop in the number of travellers between the two countries.

This form of trade, which has been in vogue for over two decades, depends on good relations among the nuclear-armed neighbours and any unpleasant incident especially in India, results in the suspension or slowing down of business, the Dawn newspaper reported today.

Many persons involved in "done-trade" business at Karachi's Bombay Bazaar have either switched to other businesses or started selling 'jainamaz' (prayer cloth) and other religious items.

A trader, who did not want to be named, said there has been "very slow movement of goods" through this form of trade as the number of people travelling between the two countries has fallen due to the heightened tensions.

Before the Mumbai attacks, the trader said would deal with two to three persons every day for sending goods to India. "Now I deal only (with) two to three passengers in a week after the terror incident," he said.

Currently, trade in only a few items like salwar suits and dupattas are being carried out by Pakistanis going to India. Earlier, Indian sarees would be brought in through "done-trade" but this has now stopped.