Afghanistan–Turkey Trade Falls $45M in 7 Months
The value of trade between Afghanistan and Turkey fell by $45 million in the first seven months of the current year.
According to figures from the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Kabul and Ankara recorded $73 million in trade this year, compared to $118 million during the same period last year.
Akundzada Abdul Salam Jawad, spokesperson for the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, said: “Afghanistan’s exports and imports with Turkey during the first seven months of 2025 amounted to $73 million, of which $21 million were exports and $52 million imports. Afghanistan’s main export items to Turkey include almond kernels, carpets, raisins, cumin, and medicinal plants. Major imports consist of pharmaceuticals, carpets, children’s supplies, heaters, shampoo, and raw materials for factories.”
Some experts and traders believe there is great potential to expand trade relations between Kabul and Ankara. They argue that if better transit routes, visa facilitation, and banking services are provided between the two countries, trade with Turkey could significantly increase.
Omid Haidari, a trader, said: “It is necessary for the leadership of the Turkish Embassy in Afghanistan and the Afghan Embassy in Turkey to work on issues that consider the needs of both countries.”
Mir Shakir Yaqubi, an economic analyst, said: “If Afghanistan’s economic and trade relations with Turkey become strong and significant, it is clear that not only can we shine in Turkish markets, but Turkey can also serve as an important bridge to Europe’s major trade markets.”
Due to Afghanistan’s geographic location, much of the trade between Kabul and Ankara passes through countries such as Iran, Pakistan, and the Central Asian republics.
Nevertheless, Turkey has made only limited investments in Afghanistan’s energy and mining sectors.
