Iran–Afghanistan Rail Corridor Emerges as Key Trade Artery

DID Press: Head of Railway of the Islamic Republic of Iran said rail freight traffic between Iran and Afghanistan risen sharply in recent months, describing the corridor as a strategic axis for expanding bilateral economic cooperation.

Jabbarali Zakeri, the railway’s chief executive, said exports from Iran to Afghanistan via rail are increasingly structured and dynamic, with construction materials, steel and other metal products accounting for the bulk of shipments. He added that petroleum products from regional suppliers are also being transited to Afghanistan through Iran’s rail network.

According to official figures, about 94,000 tonnes of cargo were transported between the two countries in the month of Jaddi, with volumes projected to rise to around 120,000 tonnes in Dalw. The railway authority aims to lift monthly freight capacity to 200,000 tonnes within the next three to four months.

To meet this target, infrastructure upgrades are under way, including the reinforcement of border rail stations inside Afghanistan in cooperation with Iranian companies.

Analysts say expanding the Iran–Afghanistan rail corridor could shift part of cross-border trade away from road transport, lowering costs while improving safety and environmental performance. They add that the route could evolve into a sustainable economic corridor benefiting not only the two countries but also wider regional trade.