Kandahar Pomegranate Exports Surge Amid Trade Reroutes

Officials from Kandahar’s Directorate of Commerce and Investment say that following the closure of trade routes between Afghanistan and Pakistan, fruit exports to other countries have increased. According to them, more than 23,000 tonnes of pomegranates have been exported from Kandahar province alone to countries such as India, Malaysia, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Uzbekistan, with the total value estimated at around $10.5 million.

Kandahar, a key fruit-producing region in Afghanistan—particularly known for its pomegranates—has faced numerous challenges in recent years regarding the transport and export of its produce. The closure of commercial borders with Pakistan, which serves as a primary route for Afghanistan’s agricultural exports, especially fresh fruit, has inflicted significant losses on Afghan traders.

Nevertheless, local authorities report that dozens of additional tonnes of Kandahar pomegranates have been processed at a newly established factory in the province. They add that the creation of such facilities can help prevent agricultural produce from going to waste and can offer more employment opportunities for local residents.

Economic experts believe that as long as the Taliban administration fails to establish stable trade routes and regional economic relations, Afghan producers and exporters will continue to face challenges such as border closures and transport restrictions.