Afghanistan-Russia Trade Doubles to $366 Million in Eight Months

The Taliban-led Ministry of Industry and Commerce has announced that trade between Afghanistan and Russia reached $366 million in the first eight months of the current solar year. This marks an increase of $192 million compared to the same period last year, which stood at $174 million.

Akhundzada Abdul Salam Jawad, spokesperson for the ministry, stated that Afghanistan’s main exports to Russia include raisins, apricots, minerals, talc, cotton, and steam boilers. In return, Afghanistan imports natural gas, gasoline, timber, sunflower oil, raw factory materials, wheat, and diesel fuel from Russia.

Economic experts say that the expansion of trade relations between Kabul and Moscow could pave the way for joint investments, particularly in the energy, agriculture, and industrial sectors, contributing to greater economic stability in Afghanistan. Amid economic stagnation and widespread unemployment, such partnerships could play a key role in driving growth.

Khanjan Alokozai, a former member of Afghanistan’s Chamber of Commerce and Investment board, noted that most of Afghanistan’s timber needs are met through imports from Russia. He emphasized the importance of simplifying transportation, logistics, and visa procedures for traders to facilitate commerce. According to Alokozai, with proper management, trade between the two countries could grow to as much as $2 billion.

Meanwhile, economist Abdul Nasser Rashtia noted that Russia is a significant player in the regional economy, and strengthening ties with such a country benefits Afghanistan, as the Russian market represents a promising destination for Afghan products.

At the same time, experts point out that Russia is one of the world’s largest producers of food, oil and gas, metals, and industrial raw materials. Increased access to the Russian market could help Afghanistan secure a stable and reasonably priced supply of essential goods domestically.