Why it matters:
The two countries share a long land border, deep cultural and linguistic ties, and low logistical costs, making trade expansion far more affordable than commerce with distant markets. For Afghanistan, whose economy relies heavily on imports, Iran offers some of the region’s lowest‑cost goods, from food and construction materials to medicine and household items. These structural advantages make the Iran-Afghanistan trade route one of the most economically efficient for Kabul.
The big picture:
Iran is currently Afghanistan’s largest trading partner, and Afghanistan imports more goods from Iran than from any other neighboring or regional country. Analysts say both sides have significant untapped potential in energy, industry, transit, and cross‑border infrastructure, but unlocking that potential requires streamlined customs procedures and expanded trade facilities.
By the numbers:
- $3.5B — Total Iran–Afghanistan trade volume in 2025
- $3.454B — Afghanistan’s imports from Iran
- $53M — Afghanistan’s exports to Iran (lead ingots, sesame, vegetable seeds, cotton, dried fruits, gemstones)
Top Iranian exports:
food products, construction materials (iron, cement), detergents, carpets, pharmaceuticals, hygiene products, and electrical appliances
What they’re saying:
Economic analyst Mohammad Zahir Halimi argues that both countries possess major unused capacities for expanding cooperation, especially in energy, industry, and trade, but emphasizes that realizing this potential requires greater facilitation and reduced barriers at border crossings.
Go deeper:
Iran Offers Incentives to Afghan Traders to Boost Cooperation
Hossein Amiri - Hossein Vaez
