Statistics from the National Statistics and Information Authority indicate that Afghanistan’s exports in Jadi (solar calendar) decreased by $28 million compared to Qaus of the current solar year.

According to the provided figures, Afghanistan’s exports in Jadi amounted to over $162 million, whereas in Qaus, the country's exports reached more than $190 million.

Mohammad Halim Rafi, spokesperson for the authority, noted that the highest exports in Jadi were to India, Pakistan, and the United Arab Emirates, while most imports came from Iran, Pakistan, and China. According to Rafi, Afghanistan imported goods worth $1.097 billion during this month.

The spokesperson said: “Our figures show that the total value of exports in January amounts to $162.2 million, while imports reached $1.097 billion.”

Meanwhile, the Chamber of Agriculture and Livestock attributed the decline in exports to trade challenges between Afghanistan and Pakistan and emphasized the need to establish alternative trade routes.

Mirwais Haji Zada, first deputy of the Chamber of Agriculture and Livestock, said: “There is supply and demand, but demand is lower while supply is higher, especially in Afghanistan’s agricultural sector. We need to boost exports and create alternative routes to Chabahar and Torkham in Pakistan.”

Some experts believe that if efforts are made to mechanize the agricultural sector, provide more facilities for traders, and support farmers, Afghanistan’s exports will increase.

Abdul Nasir Reshtia, an economic expert, said: “Fundamental work should be done on the quality and quantity of agricultural products for export, including packaging, establishing cold storage facilities, marketing inside and outside the country, promoting the use of agricultural products in national and international ceremonies, and prioritizing contracts signed within Afghanistan.”

Afghanistan is an agricultural country where 80% of its citizens are engaged in the agriculture sector, and most of the country’s exports consist of agricultural products.