Afghanistan has exported $450 million worth of goods so far this year, a slight increase compared to the previous year, officials said, adding that they hope to achieve the target of over $1 billion by the end of the year.

At least 30 tons of Afghan goods and products are sent out of the country through air routes every week, according to figures by the Chamber of Trade and Investment.

The figures show that nearly 32,800 (metric) tons of goods and products have been exported through air routes in the last five months.

The country’s exports in 2020 were $776 million, according to the National Statistics and Information Authority.

“Our target is $600 million to $700 million in the next five months,” said Mir Zaman Popal, head of the exports department at the Chamber of Trade and Investment.

The private sector meanwhile said that the exports by land are beset with obstacles.

“Many borders were closed in 2020, but the situation is a bit better this year as COVID-19 vaccination has started and countries are starting to open their routes for trade,” said Hujjatullah, a private sector representative.

Afghanistan’s exports declined last year due to COVID-19 restrictions. Carpets, handicrafts and dry and fresh fruits comprise most of the country’s exports abroad.