Pakistan’s imports from Afghanistan have surged, while exports to the country have slightly declined, official sources reported. The data reflects mixed trends in Pak-Afghan trade during August 2025.
In August, bilateral trade between Pakistan and Afghanistan totaled $143 million, showing a 4 percent month-on-month increase. Imports rose sharply by 50 percent from $37 million in July to $55 million in August. Meanwhile, exports fell by 13 percent, declining from $102 million to $88 million over the same period. On a year-on-year basis, total trade expanded by 5 percent, from $136 million in August 2024 to $143 million in August 2025. Imports increased by 16 percent YoY, whereas exports registered a marginal 1 percent decline.
During the first two months of the current fiscal year (July–August FY 2025-26), Pak-Afghan trade stood at $282 million, reflecting a slight 1 percent rise compared to the same period last year. Exports decreased slightly from $193 million to $190 million, while imports increased from $85 million to $91 million, maintaining overall stability in the bilateral trade relationship.
Key export items saw significant growth. Pakistani fruits and vegetables exports jumped 227 percent from $5.02 million to $16.42 million. Other sectors, including animal and vegetable fats, aluminum, cement, wood products, plastics, and pharmaceuticals, also recorded strong growth ranging from 23 percent to 187 percent. Conversely, exports of malt extracts, edible food preparations, electrical equipment, motorcycles, and rice experienced notable declines during the same period.
Rising imports from Afghanistan were mainly driven by higher purchases of apricots, grapes, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Apricot imports, for instance, surged by 382 percent from $4.15 million to $19.98 million. However, imports of onions, spices, coal products, and cotton declined significantly.
Officials emphasized that while exports face some challenges, the growth in imports demonstrates increasing economic integration. Strengthening infrastructure and export strategies could help balance Pak-Afghan trade in the coming months.
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