According to statistics from the Taliban-controlled National Statistics and Information Authority, Afghanistan's exports in the first six months of the current solar year (1405) decreased by 17.35% compared to the same period last year. This reduction represents a loss of $125.7 million in export revenue for the country.
According to the data released on Tuesday, October 27, the value of Afghanistan's exports in the first half of this year was $598.5 million, down from $724.2 million in the same period of 1404. Dried and fresh fruits accounted for the largest share of exports, valued at $223.5 million.
Following fruits, medicinal plants ($136.9 million), mineral products ($32.1 million), and agricultural seeds ($12.5 million) were the next largest export categories.
In contrast, the country's imports increased during the same period. The value of imports in the first six months of this year reached $6.656 billion, an increase of $116.3 million from $6.540 billion last year.
The continued closure of trade crossings with Pakistan, which began last year due to tensions with the Taliban government, is cited as a primary reason for the decline in exports. Although it appears that imports have been rerouted through alternative paths like Iran and Central Asian countries, the negative impact of the Pakistani border closure on exports remains.
Given that Afghanistan's total exports for the entire previous year were announced at $2 billion, the recent six-month figures indicate that the country faces significant challenges in reaching its previous levels. This situation puts additional pressure on Afghanistan's fragile economy.
Source: Text file
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