Afghanistan–Turkey Trade Drops $45M

DID Press: Afghanistan’s Ministry of Industry and Commerce, under the Taliban’s caretaker administration, reported a significant decline in trade with Turkey during the first seven months of 2025.

According to ministry figures, bilateral trade dropped from $118 million during the same period last year to $73 million this year, marking a $45 million decrease.

Ministry spokesman Akhundzada Abdul Salam said Afghanistan exports to Turkey reached $21 million, while imports totaled $52 million. Afghanistan’s main exports include almonds, carpets, raisins, cumin, and medicinal plants. Imports from Turkey primarily consist of pharmaceuticals, carpets, children’s goods, heaters, shampoos, and industrial raw materials.

Economic analysts argue that both Kabul and Ankara have considerable potential to expand commercial ties. They suggest that easing transit routes, issuing visas more efficiently, and improving banking services can help boost trade volumes. Experts also note that stronger economic relations with Turkey can serve as a gateway for Afghanistan to access larger European markets.

Currently, much of Afghanistan’s trade with Turkey transits through Iran, Pakistan, and Central Asian republics. Turkish investment in Afghanistan’s energy and mining sectors remains limited.