Trade between Iran and Afghanistan, and Iran and Pakistan is significant and plays an important role in the bilateral relations of these countries. In 2021, Iran exported approximately $1.6 billion worth of goods to Afghanistan and $2.8 billion to Pakistan. These exports included petroleum products, agricultural goods, industrial products, and medical equipment. Iran’s imports from Afghanistan were about $28 million, primarily consisting of dried fruits and agricultural products. Iran’s imports from Pakistan included raw materials, foodstuffs, and machinery.
Trade between these countries faces challenges, including border security issues, customs problems, and currency exchange rate fluctuations. To develop trade, government cooperation, trade and financial facilities, and an increase in cultural exchanges are needed.
The trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan is also important. In 2021, Pakistan exported about $1.9 billion to Afghanistan and imported $1.1 billion from it. Increasing security and trade cooperation and resolving political disputes can aid in the development of this trade.
Ultimately, Iran’s trade with Afghanistan and Pakistan in 2022 saw changes compared to the previous year. A decrease in trade with Afghanistan and an increase in trade with Pakistan were observed. The main items Iran exported to Afghanistan and Pakistan this year were primarily petroleum and petrochemical products.