In the solar year 1404 (corresponding to 2025), Afghanistan achieved a significant milestone by exporting its first commercial shipment of dried fruits to Europe using the Herat-Khaf railway line.
Kabul 24: This historic event marks a major step forward in enhancing Afghanistan’s non-oil exports and integrating the country into regional and international rail networks.The consignment consisted of 200 metric tons of high-quality dried fruits, including pistachio kernels, raisins, almonds, and pine nuts, sourced and processed from various regions across Afghanistan.
Valued at approximately $1.2 million (with some reports noting an equivalent of around £950,000), the shipment was loaded onto eight trucks in Herat and transported via the cross-border railway to Iran, then onward through Turkey to European destinations.
Mehdi Akrami, Deputy Head of the Herat Exporters Union, commented during the loading ceremony: “Today, we dispatched eight truckloads of premium Afghan dried fruits destined for Turkey and Europe.
These products were collected nationwide and represent a breakthrough as our first rail export to the European market via this route. It highlights Afghanistan’s strong potential in agricultural exports.”Abdul Ahad Nazariyan, a prominent trader involved in the sector, highlighted the growth in Herat’s exports: “Last year, Herat province exported goods worth $164.82 million to various global markets, reflecting a 29% increase compared to the previous year. This upward trend is expected to continue.”Local authorities in Herat described the export situation as markedly improved.
Noor Ahmad Islam Jar, the Governor of Herat, stated: “Positive negotiations are underway with countries worldwide to boost exports. We are actively engaging with the United Arab Emirates, China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Pakistan, India, and other regional partners.
Strengthening these ties requires sustained follow-up meetings and persistent efforts.”This shipment is part of broader initiatives to expand Afghanistan’s foreign trade, with agricultural products and handicrafts primarily directed to Asian, American, and European markets.
The Herat-Khaf railway not only reduces transportation costs and delivery times but also opens reliable access to distant markets.
Officials view this development as a promising sign for Afghanistan’s economic future, emphasizing that reliable rail infrastructure combined with quality products can drive sustainable export growth and position the country as a key player in regional transit corridors to Europe.
