Afghanistan, Uzbekistan sign $300 million trade agreements

Afghanistan and Uzbekistan have signed 25 commercial agreements worth more than $300 million during a Trade Connectivity Conference aimed at boosting bilateral trade.

The event was attended by Afghanistan's Minister of Industry and Commerce Nooruddin Azizi, Uzbekistan's Syrdarya region Governor Erkinjon Turdimov, along with senior officials, Afghan investors, traders, and Uzbek businessmen.

Azizi stated there is strong political and economic momentum expanding ties, with trade growing at an unprecedented pace in recent years. He said both countries aim to increase trade volumes, noting Ariana News reported a target for 2025 over 2024, while Pajhwok cited expectations for 2026 over 2025. Azizi highlighted preferential trade arrangements for eight Afghan export items and six Uzbek products.

Turdimov emphasized long-standing historical and economic links, noting the active role of Afghan traders in Syrdarya, including around 30 traders there per Pajhwok. He called for deeper cooperation in industry and manufacturing, joint projects, and outlined Uzbekistan's investment opportunities, including access to European markets.

The agreements cover sectors including construction, food products, agriculture, furniture, textiles or clothing, and pharmaceuticals, signaling growing private-sector confidence in the partnership.