KABUL, Afghanistan — Trade between Afghanistan and Iran has significantly increased this year, with overall imports and transit activities rising by nearly 30–35% compared to last year.
Last year, bilateral trade between the two countries was estimated at around $3 billion, while current projections suggest the annual trade volume could surpass $4 billion. Trade and transit operations between the two neighbors are reportedly continuing without major disruptions.
Alternative trade routes through Iran have also strengthened Afghanistan’s regional connectivity, particularly through key Iranian ports such as Abbas and Chabahar, which play an important role in facilitating Afghan imports and exports.
Meanwhile, the Iranian Embassy in Kabul reported a 53% increase in the number of Iranian transport vehicles crossing into Afghanistan through border routes.
AESF Economics insights:
Regional wars and ongoing conflicts have caused major fluctuations in trade, oil markets, and other economic sectors, negatively affecting many countries, particularly Afghanistan.
At the same time, the periodic closure of Pakistan’s transit routes and commercial ports to Afghan trade has pushed Afghanistan to expand its economic relations with other countries in the region.
One of the most significant alternatives has been the expansion of trade with Iran. Last year, trade between Afghanistan and Iran was valued at nearly $3 billion, and current estimates suggest it could rise to approximately $4 billion this year.
The growth of regional trade through Iran presents an important opportunity for Afghanistan to strengthen its economic infrastructure, diversify transit routes, and help reduce major economic challenges such as poverty and unemployment.
By: Obaidurahman Niazi AESFnews Reporter
