Iran’s Minister of Industry, Mines, and Trade Visits Kabul

KABUL (Kokcha.News) — Seyed Mohammad Atebak, Iran’s Minister of Industry, Mines, and Trade, arrived in Kabul today (Monday, September 15, 2024) leading a high-level economic delegation. According to a statement from the Taliban’s Ministry of Commerce, the Iranian delegation aims to enhance bilateral trade, remove transit barriers, and explore joint investment opportunities.

Economic relations between Iran and Afghanistan have seen fluctuations in recent years, but customs data indicates that Afghanistan remains Iran’s fifth-largest export destination.

The average customs value per ton of goods exported to Afghanistan in the first six months of 2024 was over $424, a $9 per ton increase compared to the same period in 2023 ($415), indicating a rise in the export of higher-value-added goods to Afghanistan.

On the other hand, political developments in Afghanistan and the Taliban government’s focus on developing mining and transit infrastructure have created opportunities for regional cooperation.

Given Iran’s industrial capacities, particularly in machinery, pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, and agriculture, it can play a significant role in Afghanistan’s economic reconstruction.

According to the Taliban’s Ministry of Industry and Commerce, the Iranian delegation is scheduled to meet with key institutions, including the Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, the Ministries of Mines, Commerce, Public Services, and representatives from the private sector.

Additionally, visits to infrastructure projects such as railways, mines, and the Islam Qala port are on the agenda.

Given the positive perception of Afghan traders and the public regarding the quality and competitive pricing of Iranian goods, as well as the shared needs of both countries in industrial sectors, conditions are ripe for increasing trade volumes to up to $5 billion over the next two years.

This visit, with the active participation of the private sectors of both countries, can be seen as a significant step in solidifying Iran’s role as a strategic economic partner for Afghanistan.