Afghanistan Times
Related Articles
AT News
KABUL – Afghanistan’s trade landscape has seen a significant surge over the past nine months, with imports and exports collectively soaring to a staggering $7.5 billion. Exports during this period amounted to $1.35 billion, while imports surged to $6.22 billion, marking a notable trade deficit for the country. National Statistics and Information Authority (NSIA) disclosed this data on Monday.
A comparative analysis with the preceding period reveals a marginal decline in exports from $1.37 billion to $1.35 billion, juxtaposed with a substantial rise in imports from $5.12 billion to $6.22 billion, underscoring the shifting trade paradigms.
Pakistan emerged as the leading destination for Afghan exports, absorbing goods worth $689.9 million, closely followed by India with $463 million and the UAE with $32 million, emblematic of pivotal trade alliances within the region. Dried fruit emerged as the cornerstone of Afghan exports, fetching a total of $342.7 million, with medicinal plants, minerals, and fresh fruit following suit.
In terms of imports, Iranian goods dominated the market with a hefty valuation of $1.31 billion, trailed by imports from Pakistan at $1.15 billion, and Chinese imports valued at $1.14 billion, showcasing the nation’s diversified trade engagements. The import spectrum was led by fuel, petroleum, and gas, amounting to $1.1 billion, with machinery, vehicles, and spare parts trailing closely behind at $691.9 million. Textiles, metals, and metal products also made substantial contributions to Afghanistan’s multifaceted import portfolio.
