Afghanistan Eyes Chabahar Port for Dried Fruit Exports

Afghanistan’s Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi emphasized the strategic importance of Chabahar Port during a recent media interaction in New Delhi. His remarks highlighted Afghanistan’s efforts to establish alternative trade routes, particularly amid ongoing tensions with Pakistan. Chabahar, developed by India in southeastern Iran, provides Afghanistan a direct maritime link to the Arabian Sea, circumventing the need for Pakistan’s cooperation.

Muttaqi described the port as a “good trade route,” calling for collaborative efforts between Afghanistan and India to address challenges stemming from renewed U.S. sanctions against Iran. He expressed optimism that diplomatic discussions could resolve the legal, banking, and insurance barriers that have arisen for Indian and other foreign companies operating at Chabahar.

Trade Potential and Cultural Ties

During his address at an event hosted by the Vivekananda International Foundation, the minister evoked cultural connections by referencing Rabindranath Tagore’s classic tale, “Kabuliwala.” This story, first published in 1892, recounts the experiences of an Afghan dry fruit seller in Kolkata, serving as a poignant reminder of the deep-rooted historical and cultural ties between Afghanistan and India. “It is not fiction; it is our history,” he remarked, resonating with the audience.

On the same day, the Afghanistan Ministry of Industry and Commerce reported a notable increase in the value of the country’s dried fruit exports. According to data from Tolo News, the value surged to $222 million in the first eight months of this year, compared to $179 million during the same period in 2024. Major export destinations include India, China, Pakistan, Russia, the UAE, Canada, Italy, and the UK.

Challenges Facing Exporters

Despite this growth, exporters face significant hurdles. The closure of key border crossings with Pakistan, ongoing conflicts, high air freight costs, and complications with money transfers continue to hinder the export process. The Dried Fruit Exporters Union has expressed concerns that if these issues are not addressed, Afghanistan risks losing vital markets like India.

In his remarks, Muttaqi wove together themes of infrastructure, trade, and cultural heritage, positioning Afghanistan as a nation eager to engage peacefully with India. The narrative of dried fruits extends beyond commerce; it embodies a sense of memory, identity, and hope. As he noted, the story of the “Kabuliwala” invites reflection on shared histories, suggesting that the path for trade through Chabahar could be a route towards rekindling these connections.

As Afghanistan navigates a complex geopolitical landscape, the potential return of the “Kabuliwala” through Chabahar may symbolize a broader aspiration for cooperation and mutual benefit between the two countries.