The National Statistics and Information Authority reported a decline in exports from $176.7 mn to $134 mn in February and March of 2024. Imports, however, surged from $694.6 mn to $793.5 mn during the same period, highlighting Afghanistan’s economic vulnerability.
Exports mainly went to Pakistan, India, and the United Arab Emirates, while imports came primarily from Pakistan, Iran, and China. This reliance on neighboring countries under-scores Afghanistan’s dependence on regional trade networks, which have been disrupted by political instability.
- Pakistan: $56.3 mn (42%)
- India: $48.4 mn (36%)
- UAE: $6.1 mn (4%)
Pakistan emerges as the primary source of export for Afghanistan, accounting for a substantial 42% of total exports. India follows closely behind, supplying 36% of Afghanistan’s exported goods, while the UAE contributes to 4% of the export market share.
Import into Afghanistan:
- Iran: $195.7 mn (22%)
- China: $139.2 mn (15%)
- Pakistan: $122.4 mn (13%)
Conversely, Afghanistan’s exports paint a diverse picture of trade destinations. Iran stands out as the top recipient of Afghan imports, representing 22% of total imports. China follows closely behind, accounting for 15% of imported goods, while Pakistan continues to play a significant role, absorbing 13% of Afghanistan’s imports.
Earlier Daryo reported that in talks with the Acting Prime Minister, Saidov revealed intentions to invest in diverse sectors in Afghanistan, such as setting up a cement plant, initiating coal extraction projects, and generating 200 megawatts of electricity from coal.