Mutual trade between Russia, Afghanistan shows significant growth at start of year; discussions underway on deliveries of agro, automotive products, other goods - Russian Deputy PM Overchuk

KAZAN. May 15 (Interfax) - Mutual trade between Russia and Afghanistan has significant growth potential, with trade between the two countries increasing 2.6-fold in the first two months of the year alone, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexey Overchuk told reporters following a meeting with the head of the Afghan government delegation, Minister of Higher Education Neda Mohammad Nadeem, held at the Russia-Islamic World Forum.

"We are looking at the dynamics of our mutual trade. The potential is very large, though the figures are currently quite modest. According to our data, it is approximately $326 million [in 2025]. According to Afghan data, it is approximately $500 million. Statistics for the first two months of the year show a 2.6-fold rise in mutual trade," Overchuk said.

According to Overchuk's press service, Russian exports to Afghanistan increased 2.7-fold in January-February, and imports increased 1.9-fold.

"Afghans remember very well the products the Soviet Union once supplied, including Soviet cars, trucks [...], and they say it would be great if Russia could resume such supplies to their country," Overchuk said, citing a possible area of cooperation.

Overchuk also said that the meeting participants discussed agricultural product deliveries and phytosanitary control issues, including those related to the conclusion of a bilateral agreement in this area, Russian energy exports, and prospects for investment cooperation.