In recent years, coinciding with major disruptions in Afghanistan-Pakistan trade relations, Iran and Uzbekistan have emerged as two of Afghanistan’s most important trading partners.
Kabul 24: According to available data, Afghanistan’s annual trade volume with Iran has reached approximately $3.3 billion, while trade with Uzbekistan stands at $1.7 billion. Iran serves as a primary supplier of food items, fuel, and essential commodities to Afghanistan.
Uzbekistan, meanwhile, has become a key partner in energy, food products, and transit routes.Following the closure of key border crossings with Pakistan since October 2025 (Mizan 1404), a significant portion of Afghan trade has shifted to alternative routes through Iran and Uzbekistan.
However, Mahmoud Seyadat, President of the Iran-Afghanistan Joint Chamber of Commerce, noted that Iran has not fully capitalized on this opportunity.
In contrast, Uzbekistan successfully increased its exports to Afghanistan by 41 percent over the past year.Waseem Safi, Head of Afghanistan’s Chamber of Agriculture and Livestock, highlighted the growing ties: “Relations between Afghanistan and Uzbekistan have improved significantly, marking an important achievement for the country’s trade.
To develop commerce and boost exports, we need to expand business links with all countries, especially Uzbekistan.”The Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Investment views the strengthening of ties with Iran and Uzbekistan as a valuable opportunity to diversify transit routes and reduce dependency on a single corridor. Recently, a high-level delegation of over 100 Afghan businessmen and investors, led by Sayed Karim Hashimi, traveled to Uzbekistan to discuss expanding trade cooperation and investment opportunities.
Ehsanullah Ehsan, Public Relations Director of the Chamber, stated: “Trade with Iran and Uzbekistan continues normally. Afghan traders are not only importing goods but also exporting domestic products to the markets of both countries.
The Chamber is working closely with relevant institutions to support local production, attract investment, and facilitate business activities for Afghan merchants.”While trade relations with Uzbekistan remain largely uninterrupted, recent tensions between Iran and the United States have raised concerns about potential impacts on Afghan trade and transit.
Iranian officials, however, have reaffirmed that commercial cooperation with Afghanistan continues as usual without disruption.
This shift illustrates Afghanistan’s strategic move toward diversifying its trade partners and transit pathways. Strengthening these new corridors with Iran and Uzbekistan could enhance economic stability, support export growth, and create fresh opportunities for Afghan businesses in the regional market.
