The Ministry of Industry and Commerce has announced a notable increase in trade between Afghanistan and Russia.According to ministry statistics, the value of bilateral trade between the two countries reached $366 million in the first eight months of the current solar year. During the same period last year, trade volume stood at $174 million, indicating a $192 million increase.Akhundzada Abdul Salam Jawad, the ministry’s spokesperson, stated that Afghanistan’s main exports to Russia include raisins, minerals, apricots, steam boilers, talc, and cotton. Imports from Russia, on the other hand, consist of natural gas, petrol, timber, sunflower oil, raw materials for factories, wheat, and diesel fuel.Economic experts believe stronger trade ties between Kabul and Moscow could pave the way for joint investments, particularly in energy, agriculture, and industry, ultimately contributing to greater economic stability in Afghanistan.Khanjan Alokozai, former board member of the Chamber of Commerce and Investment, said: “We import most of our timber from Russia, so it’s essential to ease transportation, logistics, and visa processes for our traders. Business visas are especially important. This trade could potentially reach $1 to $2 billion in value.”Meanwhile, economic analyst Abdul Nasir Rashtia said: “Russia is a powerful economic player in the region. Building economic ties with such a country benefits Afghanistan, as Russian markets are among the best options for Afghan exports.”It’s worth noting that Russia is one of the world’s largest producers of food, oil and gas, metals, and industrial raw materials. Access to this market could help Afghanistan secure essential goods at stable and reasonable prices. (ICE Doha)

Fonte notizia: Tolo News