With the withdrawal of US troops from Afghanistan, there is renewed optimism for increased trade between Afghanistan and Iran. The two neighboring countries share a long border and have had trade relations for centuries. However, these relations have been hampered by various factors, including US sanctions, security concerns, and logistical challenges. This essay examines the prospects for post-US Afghanistan-Iran trade and the potential benefits it could bring to both countries.

One of the main factors that have impeded trade relations between Afghanistan and Iran has been the US sanctions on Iran. These sanctions have targeted various sectors of Iran’s economy, including oil, banking, and transportation. As a result, Iran has struggled to access the global market, and its trade with neighboring countries like Afghanistan has suffered. With the US withdrawal from Afghanistan, there is an opportunity for Iran to increase its trade with its neighbor and potentially offset some of the losses it has suffered due to sanctions.

Another factor that has affected trade relations between Afghanistan and Iran has been security concerns. The border region between the two countries has been plagued by instability and violence for years, making it difficult for traders to move goods and people across the border. However, with the end of the US-led war in Afghanistan, there is an opportunity for the two countries to address these security concerns and promote greater stability in the region. This would create a more conducive environment for trade and economic development.

Logistical challenges have also affected trade between Afghanistan and Iran. The two countries share a long border, but there are few official border crossings, and the infrastructure for trade is underdeveloped. However, with the potential for increased trade, there is an opportunity for the two countries to invest in the necessary infrastructure to facilitate trade, including roads, rail networks, and border crossings.

Increased trade between Afghanistan and Iran could bring significant benefits to both countries. For Afghanistan, increased trade with Iran would provide new opportunities for economic development and diversification. It would also help to reduce the country’s dependence on Pakistan for trade, which has been a source of tension between the two countries. For Iran, increased trade with Afghanistan would provide new markets for Iranian goods and potentially offset some of the losses suffered due to sanctions. It would also help to promote regional stability and security.

Hence, the prospects for post-US Afghanistan-Iran trade are promising, but there are still challenges that need to be addressed. The US sanctions on Iran, security concerns, and logistical challenges have all impeded trade relations between the two countries. However, with the end of the US-led war in Afghanistan, there is an opportunity for Afghanistan and Iran to address these challenges and promote greater trade and economic development. This would bring significant benefits to both countries, including new markets, increased economic opportunities, and regional stability.

Note: This report has been written by Maryam Habib for Pak-Iran Intellectuals Forum (Qom Office).