Afghanistan’s Exports Surge to $270 Million in October Despite Ongoing Trade Challenges
Afghanistan’s National Statistics and Information Authority has reported that the country’s exports reached over $270 million in the month of Mizan (October) this year, marking an increase of more than $45 million compared to the previous month.
According to Halim Rafi, spokesperson for the authority, exports in the month of Sunbula (September) stood at approximately $229.8 million, rising to $274.9 million in Mizan. These exports were primarily directed to India, Pakistan, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates.
While exports rose, the country’s imports decreased during the same period, totaling around $1.168 billion—down from $1.232 billion in September. This represents a $64.2 million reduction in imports.
Despite the uptick in exports, Afghan traders continue to face significant hurdles, including border closures with Pakistan, lack of banking facilities, and transportation issues. These challenges continue to obstruct the full utilization of Afghanistan’s export capacity.
Wasim Safi, CEO of the Agriculture and Livestock Chamber, stressed the importance of strategic planning from production to processing in order to expand exports to European and American markets. He highlighted the need for improving the processing of domestic goods to enhance the quality of export products.
Economic expert Qutbuddin Yaqubi also recommended that domestic investment in packaging could boost the value of Afghan products and open up new global markets.
While the Taliban administration is trying to frame economic statistics in a positive light, experts warn that unless infrastructural and political barriers are addressed, the sustainability of this export growth cannot be guaranteed.
