Uzbekistan-Afghanistan Preferential Trade Deal Set to Launch on 1st October

Kabul, The Gulf Observer: A high-level meeting between business representatives from Uzbekistan and Afghanistan was held in Kabul during a visit by the Uzbek government delegation, led by Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov. The event, organized to reinforce friendly and mutually beneficial relations, was attended by Afghanistan’s Acting Prime Minister Abdul Ghani Baradar and focused on enhancing economic cooperation between the two neighboring countries.

The meeting provided a platform for Uzbek and Afghan entrepreneurs to discuss the favorable conditions established for businesses in both countries. Key among the discussions was the Preferential Trade Agreement between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan, which is scheduled to take effect on 1 October 2024. The agreement, which aims to boost bilateral trade, includes the elimination of import duties on 14 agreed-upon goods, providing significant advantages to exporters.

To further enhance trade, Uzbekistan has simplified the procedure for obtaining phytosanitary permits, facilitating the import of agricultural products from Afghanistan. In addition, as of 1 August, the Ayritom-Hairaton border post has been operating 24/7, further easing cross-border trade.

In a move to attract more Afghan businesses, Uzbekistan has introduced a 15-day visa-free regime for visitors to the International Trade Center in Termez and has exempted them from all taxes. Furthermore, the two countries signed an agreement on the mutual promotion and protection of investments, encouraging Afghan businesses to establish operations in Uzbekistan.

The meeting was conducted in an open dialogue format, with detailed presentations on the measures being implemented by the Uzbek government to support and facilitate entrepreneurship in the region. This event marks a significant step forward in deepening economic ties between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan.