Afghan foreign trade steady amid regional unrest: MoCI

KABUL (Pajhwok): The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) has reassured the public that Afghanistan’s foreign trade remains stable and uninterrupted, despite ongoing regional tensions.

In a statement on Tuesday, the MoCI said that data gathered from customs offices, relevant institutions, and public reports indicate strong trade relations with neighboring and regional countries.

The flow of imports, transit operations and the supply of goods to domestic markets remains normal.

The statement noted: “No abnormal fluctuations have been observed in the prices of essential goods across the country. Prices remain aligned with established benchmarks.

Reports published by some media that contradict this reality lack official backing and are based on personal and unreliable analysis.”

The Ministry added that the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA), recognizing the importance of a stable supply of raw materials and essential commodities, has activated import routes through Central Asian and Middle Eastern countries and has engaged alternative supply capacities.

It also emphasized that there are no current concerns regarding the availability of wheat, flour, and other essential items in local markets.

According to the MoCI, Afghanistan’s customs operations are under strict and strategic management. Leveraging available capacities, the customs offices are actively working to regulate exports, facilitate trade, ensure foreign currency inflow, and meet domestic demands.

In coordination with the Ministry of Finance, the MoCI has also implemented a comprehensive and preventative market oversight plan aimed at curbing hoarding and maintaining price stability.

This statement follows earlier remarks from the Ministry of Finance, which confirmed that Afghanistan’s borders and customs points with Iran remain open and that trade and customs operations are proceeding smoothly and without disruption.

kk/sa