Zero tariffs, wider trade routes: What Afghanistan wants from its growing trade push with India

Afghanistan Commerce and Industry Minister Alhaj Nooruddin Azizi addresses a press conference, in New Delhi, Monday, Nov. 24, 2025. (PTI Photo/Ravi Choudhary)(

Afghanistan has called for stronger trade and economic cooperation with India, as Commerce and Industry Minister Alhaj Nooruddin Azizi highlighted the importance of deepening bilateral ties during his six-day visit to the country.

Speaking at a press conference in Delhi, Azizi underlined the long-standing relationship between the two nations and said his visit was aimed at expanding cooperation across trade, investment and political engagement.

“It’s an immense pleasure and I feel proud that the two great nations, India and Afghanistan, are now working together. As you may know, we have a historical relationship with India," Azizi said.

He added that the partnership extended beyond commerce. “It’s not only in trade but also we have a very good political relationship with them. Now we are exploring the politics, trade, and investment."

Push to boost trade and reduce barriers

Azizi said both governments were working closely to unlock the full potential of their economic relationship. He pointed out that current trade stands at around one billion dollars and stressed that there is room for significant expansion.

“We want to expand our bilateral economic relationship between our two nations, a trade and business of approximately one billion dollars," he said. “Because the potential and resources exist in both countries, and the intention is also there, and our private sector wants to work effectively with this program and this agreement."

The Afghan minister also revealed that discussions are underway to introduce zero tariffs between the two countries to encourage smoother trade flows. “We want to increase trade," he said, noting that both sides see strong opportunities to grow commerce.

Progress on trade routes and logistics

Addressing past hurdles, Azizi said problems related to visa restrictions and high air corridor costs had now been resolved. He stressed that these issues would no longer block the movement of goods, investments or business activity.

He also highlighted efforts to broaden trade pathways, including through Iran. “We have discussed opening the Chabahar route. We have also discussed land and air corridors. Further work is underway on this," he said.

Azizi acknowledged that the closure of the Wagah border due to regional tensions has disrupted traditional trade links. However, he reaffirmed Afghanistan’s commitment to finding alternate routes to keep trade flowing.

“Despite the challenges, we are determined to reopen and expand trade routes with India," he said.

Optimism about future cooperation

The minister concluded by expressing satisfaction with the discussions held during his visit and said both governments were committed to supporting businesses and trade operations.

“Both countries are ready to provide all the facilities from both sides, so that our trade and transit can progress very well," Azizi said.

His remarks reflect a renewed push by Afghanistan to strengthen economic ties with India and explore new routes and policies that can revive and expand bilateral trade in the coming years.