Iran’s non-oil exports to Afghanistan increased by 13.6 percent in the Iranian calendar year that ended on March 19, 2024, according to an official from the Iranian Embassy in Afghanistan. The country exported approximately 3,414 tons of non-oil goods valued at $1.871 billion during this period, marking a significant rise from the previous year.

The growth was also reflected in the volume of goods exported, which rose by 28 percent compared to the prior year. Iranian Commercial Attaché Hossein Roustaei attributed the increase to enhanced bilateral trade cooperation and logistical improvements. Key measures included expanding trade and business delegations, easing operations at border crossings, extending customs office working hours, and organizing economic commission meetings between the two countries in Tehran. Additionally, business conferences held in Kabul, Herat, Tehran, and Mashhad, as well as an exhibition showcasing Iran’s export potential in Herat, contributed to the uptick in trade.

The range of exported products covers various sectors, with notable items including oil derivatives, iron and steel ingots, natural gas, hydrocarbons, foodstuffs, polyethylene varieties, fresh fruits and vegetables, and cement. These commodities reflect the diverse economic exchange between the neighboring countries.

These developments highlight Iran’s efforts to strengthen economic ties with Afghanistan despite regional challenges, emphasizing the strategic importance of cross-border trade in non-oil sectors. The increase in exports also suggests a growing demand for Iranian goods in Afghanistan, potentially driven by reconstruction and domestic consumption needs in the Afghan market.