Iran-Afghanistan Hold Trade Meeting to Boost Cross-Border Cooperation

DID Press: Senior delegations from Iran and Afghanistan convened sixth round of joint economic talks in Dogharoon Free Trade Zone, aimed at easing transit, reducing trade costs, and expanding bilateral cooperation.

Afghanistan delegation included representatives from the Ministries of Industry and Commerce, Mines and Petroleum, Agriculture, Finance, and Customs, while Iranian officials were from Trade Promotion Organization.

Discussions focused on addressing transit challenges, facilitating trade exchanges, and improving border coordination. Both sides visited Islam Qala and Dogharoon customs facilities, underscoring the need for joint mechanisms to accelerate the movement of cargo trucks.

Mawlawi Sibghatullah Akhundzada, head of investment at Afghanistan’s Ministry of Industry and Commerce, described trade through Dogharoon crossing as “satisfactory,” noting that there are no serious obstacles to expanding economic ties. He said the main goal of the visit was to strengthen economic relations and resolve operational challenges at shared borders.

Meanwhile, Dr. Neisi, assistant to the head of Iran’s Trade Promotion Organization, highlighted the high volume of bilateral trade and stressed the importance of upgrading customs infrastructure and deploying modern technologies at both border points.

According to Iranian officials, annual trade between the two countries via Dogharoon crossing amounts to nearly four billion dollars.

This meeting marked the sixth round of joint consultations between the two countries, with a continued focus on resolving transit barriers, lowering transportation costs, and streamlining customs procedures.