Trade between Afghanistan and Uzbekistan has reached $1.2 billion during the first six months of the year, according to a recent report by Uzbekistan’s National Committee on Statistics.
The figures place Afghanistan among Uzbekistan’s top 10 trading partners, ranking fifth during the reported period. The increase reflects growing economic ties between the two neighboring countries and a broader shift in Afghanistan’s regional trade patterns.
Khan Jan Alkozai, an advisor to Afghanistan’s Chamber of Commerce and Investment, said that following disruptions and the halt in trade with Pakistan, a significant number of Afghan traders have shifted their business activities toward Central Asian markets.
According to Alkozai, Afghanistan’s trade with Central Asian countries has consequently increased. He said Afghanistan imports essential goods such as food products, oil and medicines from these markets, while exporting fresh and dried fruits, carpets and meat.
Alkozai emphasized that trade between Afghanistan and Uzbekistan is continuing to expand, highlighting the growing importance of Uzbekistan as a major economic partner for Afghanistan.
Uzbek officials have previously reported that trade with Afghanistan has increased by approximately two and a half times compared with previous levels.
The growing trade volume could further strengthen economic relations between the two countries, particularly as Afghan traders seek alternative routes and markets in Central Asia. Uzbekistan’s geographic position and established transport links make it an important gateway for Afghan imports and exports.
The latest figures indicate that despite broader economic challenges, Afghanistan’s commercial engagement with neighboring Central Asian countries is gaining momentum, with Uzbekistan emerging as one of its key regional trading partners.