A senior Iranian business leader says trade prospects between Iran and Afghanistan are “bright and promising,” calling for faster progress on joint projects and improved border and financial infrastructure to deepen economic ties.
Speaking at a multilateral business forum held alongside the fourth Imam Abu Hanifa International Exhibition in Kabul on Wednesday, Qadir Qiafeh, vice-president of Iran Chamber of Commerce, said Afghanistan’s mineral wealth, fertile land, emerging industrial potential and young workforce complemented Iran’s advanced industrial base, technical expertise and access to global markets.
He said the Iranian chamber aims to play “a central and active role” in facilitating long-term partnerships between private-sector players in both countries.
Qiafeh outlined several priority steps to boost cooperation, starting with accelerating joint projects, particularly completion and operationalization of all phases of the Khaf-Herat railway, which he said would significantly increase bilateral trade capacity.
He also called for improved payment channels and resolution of banking issues, including blocked accounts, which continue to hinder transactions. Strengthening infrastructure at the Dogharoun border crossing and reducing delays at the frontier were essential for expanding trade, he added.
Qiafeh said Iran and Afghanistan could jointly develop agricultural supply and processing, noting Afghanistan’s water resources and production potential. He said part of Iran’s agricultural needs could be sourced from Afghanistan and, after processing, exported to international markets.