Afghanistan's Trade with Central Asia Increases Significantly in 2025, Ministry Data Shows

Fresh statistics from the Ministry of Industry and Commerce indicate that Afghanistan's trade volume with Central Asian countries in 2025 saw a notable increase compared to 2024, with imports rising 43% and exports growing 77%.

According to the data, imports rose from $1.679 billion in 2024 to $2.399 billion in 2025, while exports increased from $122 million to $216 million. The trade involved countries including Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Turkmenistan.

Akhundzada Abdul Salam Jawad, spokesperson for the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, stated: "Despite Afghanistan always being an import-dependent country, it achieved 77% growth in exports last year. If this trend continues, Afghanistan could achieve trade balance in the not-too-distant future."

Following the halt in trade links with Pakistan, Afghanistan's economic cooperation with Central Asian countries has increased, with high-level delegations from these nations visiting Afghanistan.

The Chamber of Agriculture and Livestock views Central Asian countries as important for exporting agricultural products, implementing joint agricultural projects, and supplying quality goods. Khan Mohammad Fotan, president of the chamber, said: "All Central Asian countries like Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, along with Russia, the UAE, Qatar, India, and all neighboring countries want good commercial relations with Afghanistan and the Chamber of Agriculture and Livestock."

Economic expert Abdul Shakur Hadewal added: "Every country, especially those that have grown economically, needs to strengthen its relations with Afghanistan, which can have a positive impact on the country's economy. Therefore, the Islamic Emirate must work to strengthen ties with advanced countries to boost the economy."

The new trade data with Central Asian countries comes as these nations have ramped up efforts to utilize Afghanistan's transit routes. Currently, joint projects in electricity, gas transmission, and railways between Afghanistan and regional countries are under implementation or planning, which are expected to significantly increase trade and economic cooperation.