Afghanistan, Uzbekistan ink $300m trade agreements

KABUL (Pajhwok): Afghanistan and Uzbekistan have inked 25 agreements across various sectors, including construction, food, agriculture, furniture, clothing and pharmaceuticals.

A Trade Connectivity Conference was held to increase bilateral trade between Kabul and Tashkent and to meet the needs of both countries, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) said.

A statement from the ministry said the meeting was attended by Minister of Commerce and Industry Nooruddin Azizi, governor of Syrdarya region of Uzbekistan Erkinjon Turdimov, Afghan investors and traders and businessmen from Syrdarya region.

Azizi said there was a strong will to expand ties between the two countries, which led to unprecedented growth in bilateral relations in recent years.

He also emphasised that trade between the two nations was expected to rise in 2026 compared to 2025 and there was potential for cooperation beyond current levels.

He highlighted key export commodities from both countries and noted the signing of preferential agreements covering eight products from Afghanistan and six from Uzbekistan.

For his part, Turdimov spoke about the historical and economic ties between the two countries and the activities of 30 Afghan traders in Syrdarya region, stressing joint initiatives in industry, enterprises and new practical projects.

The Uzbek official also discussed investment opportunities in his country and exports to European markets, encouraging traders from both sides to engage in dialogue on proposals and requests.

As a result of the meeting, 25 agreements worth over $300 million were signed in various sectors, including construction, food, agriculture, furniture, clothing and pharmaceuticals.

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