Iran and Afghanistan Sign Border Trade Agreement in Nimroz

Iranian provincial officials and Afghan representatives have signed a 23-article memorandum of understanding in Nimroz province aimed at expanding economic cooperation and border trade. The agreement was announced by Mojib Hassani, the deputy for economic coordination and regional development in Iran’s Sistan and Baluchestan province.

Under the memorandum, both sides plan to activate local markets at the Shah Gul, Malek, and Gomshad border crossings. Iranian authorities stated they are prepared to open these markets once they receive a formal declaration of readiness from Afghan officials. A temporary road linking two of the border markets has already been constructed, which officials say has led to an increase in cross-border trade exchanges.

Infrastructure development remains a central component of the agreement. Iranian teams have deployed equipment for a second border bridge, with construction reported to be approximately 30 percent complete. Further progress on the bridge will depend on coordination with Afghan authorities. Additionally, X-ray scanning machines are scheduled for installation at the crossing points, with implementation expected to be completed by the end of Jawza.

The memorandum also addresses commercial logistics beyond the immediate border. Officials noted that the Chabahar Free Zone is allocating land to establish commercial warehouses designed to accommodate Afghan traders. The agreement outlines broader efforts to streamline customs procedures and facilitate Afghan commercial activity within the Iranian port city’s special economic zone.