More than twelve containers of apples from Khak-e-Jabar district in Kabul province are being prepared for export to India. The shipment, valued at more than US$250,000, is being coordinated with several Afghan traders.
Indian buyers who previously worked with Afghan dried fruits report growing interest in sourcing fresh produce, including apples. Murtaza Mansoor, an Indian trader, said: "We are very grateful to the Government of India and also to the Government of Afghanistan, especially for the free-trade agreement that exists between the two countries. This agreement has created a brighter outlook for expanding and developing trade between the two nations."
Harshil Ghori, another Indian trader, said: "The fruits produced in Afghanistan are of very high quality, and we are proud to bring these products to our country so that our people can also benefit from the excellent quality of Afghan fruits and those from other parts of the world."
According to Afghan traders involved in the shipment, the aim is to secure alternative markets for Afghan produce. They noted that India could be a strong destination for fresh crops, particularly fruit. Abdul Malik Montazer, an Afghan businessman, said: "Indian investors should be encouraged to invest more in Afghanistan. Now that the Minister of Industry and Commerce has traveled to India, we hope he returns with positive outcomes and that opportunities for exports via both air and land routes are created."
Orchard owners who supply the apples said they welcome the new opportunity and want export pathways to expand beyond India. Almas, an orchard owner, said: "We ask the Islamic Emirate to facilitate the export of our products to countries such as the United Arab Emirates, Russia, China, and Tajikistan."
The Economic Deputy of the Prime Minister's Office recently urged traders and industrialists to consider trade routes other than Pakistan.
Source: Tolo News
