Russian media, citing Rustam Khabibulin (or Rustam Habib Boulin), head of the Russian Trade Center in Afghanistan, report that Afghanistan is ramping up exports of fruits and vegetables to Russia following Iran’s temporary ban on food and agricultural product exports.
Kabul 24: Tehran announced the suspension on Tuesday to prioritize domestic food security amid its ongoing conflict with the United States and Israel.The ban, effective from March 3, 2026 (Hoot 13, 1404 in the Afghan calendar), has created a significant shortfall in Russia’s supply of fresh produce previously met largely by Iranian exporters.
In response, Afghanistan has moved quickly to capitalize on the opportunity. The first shipment—100 tons of high-quality Afghan apples—has already been dispatched to Russia.
According to Khabibulin, additional consignments featuring a wide range of products—including bell peppers, dried fruits, nuts, celery, squash, eggplant, citrus fruits, various berries, fresh herbs, medicinal plants, and melons—are being prepared and will be shipped in the coming weeks.
Khabibulin emphasized that demand from Russian importers is steadily rising, and Afghan exporters are fully committed to meeting this growing need.
The goal, he said, is to prevent shortages in the Russian market, stabilize prices for consumers, and ensure a reliable supply chain during this transitional period.This development highlights shifting trade dynamics in the region.
Afghanistan, despite internal challenges, possesses substantial production capacity for premium fruits and vegetables and sees Russia as a promising new market. Increased exports could provide a vital source of income for Afghan farmers and contribute to economic stabilization.
The Russian Trade Center official noted that bilateral economic cooperation is expanding rapidly.
This surge in agricultural trade may strengthen long-term ties between Afghanistan and Russia, positioning the former as a key alternative supplier in place of Iran for certain commodities.
