KABUL (Tolo) - Iranian officials have announced that they are reviewing plans to remove barriers to exporting goods to neighboring countries, including Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Iraq.
Hamid Ghanbari, Deputy Foreign Minister for Economic Diplomacy, said following the 12th meeting of Iran’s Economic Relations Coordination Center that proposals aimed at addressing export challenges with neighboring countries are under consideration.
The meeting also addressed problems faced by exporters, transportation challenges, and strategies to strengthen non-oil exports.
Afghanistan’s Ministry of Industry and Commerce has welcomed Iran’s initiative, saying it supports any measure that benefits the people and countries of the region.
Mohammad Asif Elyas, spokesperson for the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, said: “The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan supports any decision that benefits the people and countries of the region.”
The initiative comes as the ongoing conflict between Iran and the United States and Israel, disruptions to trade routes, and transportation difficulties have increased the importance of finding alternative routes for exports and imports.
Economic analysts believe Iran is focusing on expanding economic cooperation with neighboring countries and using alternative regional routes to support its international exports.
Sayed Masoud, an economic analyst, said: “Iran has to keep three routes open: Iraq, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. It faces challenges with Iraq and Pakistan, as Pakistan also has U.S. support, while al-Zaidi in Iraq has ties with the United States. In this situation, Afghanistan should also develop proposals for Iran that serve its own interests.”
Given the trade and transit relations between Iran and Afghanistan, removing exports barriers could help facilitate commercial exchanges between the two countries.
However, the effectiveness of these plans will depend on their implementation details, how customs-related challenges are addressed, and the condition of transportation routes.