Pakistan’s Imports From Afghanistan Jump 50 Precent In August
Pakistan’s imports from Afghanistan surged by 50 percent in August, even as its own exports to the neighbouring country declined, official data show.
Pakistan’s imports from Afghanistan surged by 50 percent in August, even as its own exports to the neighbouring country declined, official data show.
Trade between the two countries reached $143 million in August 2025, a 4 precent increase from July, according to figures reported by The Nation newspaper. Imports from Afghanistan rose from $37 million in July to $55 million in August, while Pakistan’s exports fell 13 precent, from $102 million to $88 million. Year-on-year, exports slipped 1 precent, from $89 million in August 2024 to $88 million this year.
Overall bilateral trade in the first two months of the 2025–26 financial year (July and August) totalled $282 million, up 1 precent from the same period a year earlier. Pakistan’s exports dipped slightly from $193 million to $190 million, while imports from Afghanistan increased from $85 million to $91 million.
The rise in imports was driven largely by agricultural products. Apricot imports jumped 382 precent, from $4.15 million to nearly $20 million. Imports of grapes rose 96 precent, tomatoes 46 precent and cucumbers 15 precent. By contrast, shipments of onions, spices, coal and cotton fell.
On the export side, Pakistan recorded gains in several sectors: fruit and vegetables climbed 227 precent, animal and vegetable oils 187 precent, aluminium 81 precent, cement 79 precent and pharmaceuticals 23 precent. Exports of rice, motorcycles, electrical appliances and processed food declined.
Analysts said that while the trade balance has shifted in Afghanistan’s favour, overall volumes have remained stable so far this financial year.
Separately, Iran announced Monday that its exports to Afghanistan grew by 30 percent in the first half of this year compared with the same period in 2024.
