A new report indicates a significant increase in trade between Afghanistan and Kazakhstan, highlighting growing economic ties between the two countries.
According to Astana Times, trade and transit volume between Afghanistan and Kazakhstan increased by 77% during the first three months of 2026, reaching one million tons. The report notes that this growth reflects a rise in Kazakhstan’s exports, particularly wheat and flour, which reached 291,000 tons, with 37% exported as flour.
The Ministry of Industry and Commerce of Afghanistan also confirmed the improvement in bilateral trade, stating that trade levels between the two countries have grown compared to previous years.
According to ministry spokesman Akhundzada Abdul Salam Jawad, total trade between Afghanistan and Kazakhstan reached $565 million in 2025. Of this amount, $55 million accounted for Afghan exports, while $510 million consisted of imports. Afghanistan’s key exports include fruit juices, non-alcoholic beverages, raisins, vegetables, licorice, onions, boilers, and grapes. Major imports include wheat flour, iron sheets, flax, wheat, industrial raw materials, chemical fertilizers, liquefied gas, and eggs.
Economic analysts say the expansion of trade between the two countries is important and can help meet Afghanistan’s market demands. Analyst Asif Stanikzai noted that developing alternative trade routes could support Afghanistan’s economic growth and reduce reliance on a limited number of transit corridors.
Following disruptions in trade relations with Pakistan, Afghanistan has been working to establish alternative transit routes and expand railway and transport links with regional countries to diversify its trade pathways.
