Afghanistan Launches New Export Route to India through Chabahar Port

Afghanistan has launched a new export route to India through the through the Chabahar Port of Iran. 23 trucks carrying 57 tonnes of dried fruits, textiles, carpets and mineral products were dispatched from western Afghan city of Zaranj to Iran’s Chabahar port. The consignment would be then shipped to Mumbai.
Chabahar port is seen as a testimony of healthy cooperation between India, Iran and Afghanistan this will ensure economic growth. The Chabahar Port of Iran provides easy access to the sea for Afghanistan. India has invested in the development of this route as well as Chabahar port. This route allows both India and Afghanistan to engage in trade bypassing Pakistan.

India-Afghanistan Trade

Afghan exports to India stood at $740 million in 2018 and India is the largest export destination for Afghanistan. The new route is one of the many initiatives undertaken by the governments of India and Afghanistan to enhance trade relations.
To boost the trade relations, both India and Afghanistan had established an air corridor in the year 2017. The opening of new avenues for Afghanistan to trade with India will aid Afghanistan in to reduce its trade deficit.
After the withdrawal from JCPOA and reimposing of sanctions on Iran, US had granted an exception for the development of Chabahar port since the new transportation corridor could contribute significantly for Afghanistan’s economy and meet their needs of non-sanctionable goods such as food and medicines.

Month: Current Affairs - February, 2019