Kabul (TDI): The Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry hosted a delegation from Russia’s Dagestan, culminating in the signing of five key memoranda of understanding (MoUs) worth approximately $1.5 million.
According to a statement issued by the Chamber, Afghan traders and the visiting delegation held an extensive networking session to explore avenues of bilateral cooperation.
Discussions focused particularly on the transport and food sectors, reflecting shared interest in strengthening supply chains and improving logistical connectivity between the two sides.
The five MoUs aim to boost the export and import of food products, enhance transport coordination, and promote direct business-to-business engagement.
Officials described the agreements as an important move toward creating sustainable trade channels between Afghan enterprises and Russian regional markets.
Dagestan, a strategically located federal subject of the Russia, serves as a commercial bridge between Central Asia and the Caucasus region.
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Afghan traders view the partnership as a potential gateway to broader access within the Russian market and neighboring regions. Trade experts say the development is especially timely given ongoing uncertainty across traditional transit routes.
In recent months, Afghan exporters and importers have faced mounting challenges due to disruptions along certain trade corridors with Pakistan. The partial closure of key crossings has created logistical bottlenecks and financial strain for businesses reliant on established routes.
As a result, Afghan commercial circles have intensified efforts to diversify transit pathways and cultivate alternative markets. Expanding trade ties with Russia and its constituent regions is widely seen as part of this broader strategic shift.
Separately, officials from the Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry have also engaged in discussions with Iranian authorities regarding cooperation in Afghanistan’s oil refining sector. Collaboration with Iran could potentially facilitate not only crude oil supply but also technical expertise and investment in refining infrastructure.
If operationalized successfully, the Dagestan accords and parallel energy discussions with Iran will mark a positive step toward deeper regional economic integration and improved market access for Afghan businesses.
