Afghanistan’s exports grew 12% in 2016

Almaty. January 11. Silkroadnews – Afghanistan’s Ministry of Commerce and Industries reported 12% exports volume increase over 2016, AfTAG writes.

Afghanistan’s Minister of Commerce Homayoun Rasa said, the country’s foreign trade deficit (imports exceeding exports) decreased due to 12% increase in exports.

In 2015 trade deficit amounted to $7.159 billion. The situation was worse in 2014 ($8.209 billion).

According to the official, improvements have been achieved in investment and exports raising fields. The minister also has noted a progress achieved with private business representatives joining the state’s Supreme Council.

AfTAG reminds, last year the National Unity Government signed a number of agreements aimed to boost the Afghan goods export to other countries, in particular, through the Iranian port of Chabahar shopping. In this regard, despite aggravation of regular exports through Pakistan, Afghanistan’s exports of agricultural products has grown significantly in total.