Afghanistan’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry said trade with Pakistan topped $1.1 billion in the first six months of the current solar year, highlighting the need for deeper economic ties.
Exports stood at $304 million, while imports reached $804 million. Afghan exports included coal, cotton, talc, beans and tobacco, while imports from Pakistan featured rice, cement, medicine, textiles and potatoes.
Officials in both Kabul and Islamabad are being urged to aim to double their trade volume, which analysts say would strengthen economic stability, create jobs and reduce reliance on distant markets.
Stronger cross-border commerce could also ease political tensions through shared economic interests.