He stressed that Afghanistan is increasing its use of trade routes through Iran and Central Asia as border tensions with Pakistan persist and cargo is increasingly being diverted from Pakistan’s borders and ports.
Trade between Kabul and Islamabad in the past six months amounted to $1.1 billion, while Kabul’s trade with Iran during the same period amounted to $1.6 billion, Akhundzada said.
He said Iran has equipped Chabahar with improved cargo handling equipment and X-ray scanners and is offering Afghan cargo a 30 percent reduction in port duties, a 75 percent reduction in storage fees, and a 55 percent reduction in dock fees.
The use of Iran’s Chabahar port has reduced delays and facilitated the transportation of goods, the spokesperson stressed.
“The Chabahar facility has reduced delays and given traders confidence that shipments will not stop even if borders close,” Akhundzada added.
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