Global Rice News

LAHORE – Boosting the trade volume between Pakistan and Afghanistan is crucial to harness the full potential of their historical socio-economic relations, according to Kashif Anwar, President of Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Speaking at a meeting with an Afghan trade delegation, Anwar emphasized the importance of taking joint and concrete steps to enhance mutual trade.

The delegation, led by Khan Jan Alokozai, Board Member of Afghanistan Chamber and Co-President of Pakistan Afghanistan Chamber, included several other members such as Ajmal Safi, Babrak Akbare, Gharibullah, Naqibullah Safi, Muhammad Saleem Afghan, Muhammad Tahir Safi, Essa Khan, and Qais Safi.

Anwar highlighted the significance of the visit from the Afghan trade delegation and stressed the need for strong trade relations with neighboring countries. He further stated that building an understanding of each other’s culture can lead to increased trade. Anwar also mentioned the growing development of the information technology sector in Pakistan.

Currently, the bilateral trade volume between Pakistan and Afghanistan stands at $522 million, which has significant room for improvement, according to Kashif Anwar. He emphasized that establishing banking channels between the two countries can greatly enhance the trade volume. Anwar identified pharmaceuticals, carpets, rice, and auto parts as potential sectors for increasing trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan. He also mentioned the recent issuance of an SRO for Barter System by the Ministry of Commerce, which aims to promote mutual trade.

Khan Jan Alokozai, the head of the Afghan delegation, expressed willingness to increase trade with Pakistan, emphasizing the mutual need between the two countries. Alokozai highlighted the potential for economic growth in the region and stated that 70% of trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan is conducted through Lahore. He mentioned that pharmaceuticals, rice, auto parts, and other items are exported to Afghanistan from Lahore.

Alokozai emphasized the importance of transit trade for Afghan exports, stating that Pakistan exports to Central Asia through Afghanistan, with Punjab and Lahore being major contributors. He mentioned that currently, 500,000 metric tons of fresh fruit is being transported to Central Asia from Pakistan through Afghanistan. Alokozai stressed the need for regional stability and proposed that linking the two countries can connect South Asia and Central Asia.

He also mentioned the potential for Afghanistan to facilitate Pakistan’s exports to Russia while receiving raw materials from Central Asia. Alokozai stated that Afghanistan has achieved economic stability following recent political changes and peace. He highlighted Afghanistan’s efforts to promote its private sector. However, political instability between Pakistan and Afghanistan has affected mutual trade, resulting in a shift in Pakistan’s market share to Iran, where mutual trade between Afghanistan and Iran has exceeded $3 billion.

The delegation urged Pakistani investors to consider investing in Afghanistan, emphasizing the favorable conditions for Pakistani individuals to work in mining and other sectors with ownership rights. They noted that investors from other countries are required to have an Afghan national with them.

In response to a plan for reconciliation between the two countries, Anwar mentioned that the Lahore Chamber has established an Alternate Dispute Resolution Center, which has been effective in resolving business disputes.

Source: [Nation.com.pk](https://www.nation.com.pk)