Uzbekistan, Afghanistan Boost Trade and Investment Ties

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Uzbekistan and Afghanistan are continuing to expand practical trade and economic cooperation, Deputy Prime Minister of Uzbekistan Jamshid Khodjaev said in connection with the visit of Afghan Minister of Industry and Trade Nuriddin Azizi to Tashkent.

According to the Uzbek side, bilateral trade turnover exceeded US$1.7 billion in 2025. In the first quarter of 2026, trade reached US$507.8 million, representing a 26% increase compared to the same period last year.

During the talks, the sides discussed measures to further increase trade volumes. These included accelerating the implementation of a preferential trade agreement, simplifying customs procedures, and introducing “green corridors” to speed up the movement of goods.

Special attention was given to investment cooperation. The importance of strengthening the legal framework between the two countries and accelerating the preparation of an Agreement on the Promotion and Mutual Protection of Investments was emphasized.

The parties also discussed preparations for a business forum scheduled for May in Termez, which will bring together Afghan companies operating in pharmaceuticals, construction materials, and automotive goods.

The sides reviewed prospects for expanding cooperation in agriculture, industry, transport, and transit. Particular emphasis was placed on the strategic importance of the Trans-Afghan railway project, seen as a key element of regional transport integration.

Following the discussions, both sides confirmed that practical steps in trade, logistics, and investment are elevating Uzbek-Afghan partnership to a new level.