Afghanistan Pursues Trade Expansion with India and Indonesia

The Government of Afghanistan is actively expanding its international economic ties through separate diplomatic and commercial engagements with India and Indonesia. In a virtual meeting on September 1, 2026, the India-Afghanistan Joint Working Group on Trade, Commerce and Investment agreed to implement measures to enhance bilateral trade. The two nations will focus on improving customs data-sharing, trade connectivity, and regulatory coordination for the pharmaceutical and agriculture sectors.

These efforts follow a July 2026 Joint Committee Meeting in New Delhi regarding humanitarian assistance. Current trade data for 2025-26 shows bilateral trade at USD 907.85 million, with India importing USD 654.22 million and exporting USD 253.63 million. Discussions also covered banking, energy cooperation, and visa facilitation for Afghan traders.

Simultaneously, Afghan officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs met with the Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Jakarta. These talks centered on identifying investment opportunities, organizing joint trade exhibitions, and strengthening private-sector cooperation. During the meetings, Afghan representatives asserted that increased security and stability within the country have created a more favorable environment for foreign investors and traders.