KABUL — More than 408,000 tons of cargo were transported through Afghanistan’s railway network between December 20 and January 20, the Taliban-run Ministry of Public Works said in a statement.
The majority of shipments—302,327 tons—passed through Hairatan port, while 27,045 tons were transported via Aqina port, 70,564 tons through Torghundi port, and 8,940 tons via the Khaf-Herat railway, according to the ministry.
The shipments included oil, non-oil goods, and other imported and exported materials, the statement said.
The ministry reported that 1,698 tons of goods were exported or transited during this period, with key exports including dried fruits, kinnow (a variety of mandarin), rice, and pomegranate juice.
Taliban officials claim that expanding railway-based trade will lead to job creation and boost economic activity.
Despite the reported increase in rail shipments, Afghan traders have voiced concerns about high tariffs, excessive taxes, and the lack of cold storage facilities, which continue to hinder trade efficiency.
