Afghanistan’s Trade Relations Expand to Over 100 Countries

DIDPress: Nooruddin Azizi, acting Minister of Industry and Commerce of the Taliban caretaker government, highlighted the achievements of his ministry, saying Afghanistan’s trade relations now encompass more than 100 countries.

Speaking at a ceremony in Kabul on Saturday, July 19, to present the ministry’s annual report, the acting Minister of Industry and Commerce announced that Afghanistan’s trade with the world had expanded significantly over the past year.

He emphasized that one of the ministry’s primary objectives is to enhance trade relations with regional and global partners, noting that substantial progress has been made in this regard.

Industrial Growth and Investment

“Over the past year, more than 160,000 acres of land across various provinces have been allocated for the establishment of industrial parks and the completion of infrastructure projects. This initiative is expected to foster both domestic and foreign investment,” said Azizi.

He also highlighted other key achievements, including the ratification of the Industrial Zones Law and the approval of procedures to provide facilities for returning Afghanistani traders and industrialists.

Economic Priorities

The acting minister stressed that the caretaker government is working to create a conducive environment for investment, production, and exports to ensure long-term economic growth.

The Ministry of Industry and Commerce is one of the key institutions the Taliban government is relying on to offset the reduction in foreign aid by promoting domestic investment, industrial infrastructure, and export development.

Expanding trade with neighboring and regional countries—including Iran, Pakistan, China, Russia, Turkey, and Central Asian states—remains a top priority in the Taliban’s economic policies.