KABUL (SW): The International Chamber of Commerce and Industries (ICCI) has underlined the potential for surge in Afghanistan’s international trade following the opening of its office in Kabul two weeks ago.
Representatives of the Kabul government and the ICCI told a presser here on Sunday efforts are underway to overcome hurdles in this regard. Fears in the regional countries regarding drug peddling was marked as one of the main reasons alongside high customs tariff, bureaucratic hurdles and others hindering growth in exports.
Abdul Qadeer, ICCI representative in Afghanistan, said on the occasion opening of their office in Kabul would help overcome these issues. He said export costs are likely to come down 14 per cent. The ICCI country representative stressed unless Uzbekistan’s concerns about narcotics in regard to imports from Afghanistan are not resolved Afghanistan cannot take advantage from the rail link established with China some six months ago.
“Afghanistan should develop a mechanism with the regional countries in a bid to address their concerns”, he stressed.
Qurban Haqjo, deputy Minister for Commerce and Industries, said the government has initiated efforts to boost exports and encourage foreign investment in the country. He added a draft agreement related to exports from Afghanistan via the Chinese rail link has been shared with Uzbekistan, and as soon as Taskhent retifies it, the issues in this area would be resolved.
ENDS