Trade with European Countries Increases Despite Challenges
European countries are considered one of the main markets for Afghanistan’s exports. However, high transportation costs due to long routes and reliance on air corridors have limited the growth of trade with these countries.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce says that trade between Afghanistan and European countries is currently running smoothly, with the volume of trade between the two sides having increased compared to last year.
The spokesperson for the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, Akhundzada Abdul Salam Jawad, said: “In the first eight months of 2025, Afghanistan’s exports to European countries totaled more than 17 million dollars, while imports from these countries reached nearly 143 million dollars. These countries include Germany, Sweden, France, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, the United Kingdom, and many others.”
On the other hand, the Chamber of Commerce and Investment considers trade relations between Afghanistan and the European Union to be expanding. It emphasizes the need for more facilities in the areas of transit, business visas, and the standardization of export products.
The spokesperson for the Chamber of Commerce and Investment, Jan Aqa Naveed, added: “There is high demand for Afghan products in European markets. Fortunately, our exports to European countries continue. However, challenges remain, and Afghanistan needs bilateral agreements with countries located along the routes leading to the European Union — particularly along the Lapis Lazuli corridor.”
Similarly, the Chamber of Agriculture and Livestock, pointing to the high potential of the country’s agricultural products, says that Afghan goods must be prepared according to European standards.
The acting head of the Chamber of Agriculture and Livestock, Waseem Safi, said: “Our traders should be provided with the necessary facilities to ensure that products are properly labeled and packaged in compliance with international standards. This would enable better transit to European countries.”
According to economic experts, Afghanistan’s geographical location and its production potential in agriculture, handicrafts, fresh and dried fruits, and even minerals could allow it to designate European countries as the main destinations for its exports.
