Afghanistan and Russia sign 15 private-sector MoUs worth US$103 million, covering imports of essential goods, Afghan fruit exports and broader trade and investment cooperation.
Afghanistan and Russia have signed 15 memorandums of understanding (MoUs) worth approximately US$103 million to expand bilateral trade and strengthen economic cooperation. The agreements were signed by private-sector companies from both countries in Kabul, in the presence of Afghanistan's Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar Akhund, and Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexey Overchuk.
The agreements cover a range of import and export activities, including the supply of medicines, wheat, flour and cooking oil from Russia to Afghanistan. They also provide for the export of fresh Afghan fruits, particularly pomegranates, to the Russian market. The arrangements are intended to facilitate two-way trade and create additional commercial opportunities for businesses in both countries.
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The signing took place during Overchuk's visit to Kabul, where he led a Russian delegation comprising government officials, investors, traders and industrial representatives. The visit included discussions with Afghan officials on expanding economic relations, attracting investment and identifying areas for practical cooperation.
During a meeting with Baradar, both sides discussed opportunities in mining, energy, oil and gas, manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, telecommunications and infrastructure. The Afghan deputy prime minister invited Russian companies to explore investment opportunities in these sectors, highlighting the country's natural resources and geographical position as potential advantages for regional trade and economic development.
Afghanistan also called for improved access for its products in Russian markets, lower transportation and transit costs, and simplified customs procedures. Officials highlighted agricultural exports such as pine nuts, saffron, pomegranates, grapes and cotton as areas with potential for further cooperation. Russia expressed interest in purchasing larger quantities of Afghan agricultural products and expanding its commercial presence in the country.
The agreements come amid an increase in bilateral trade. According to Russian Deputy Prime Minister Overchuk, trade between the two countries exceeded US$349 million during the first eight months of 2026, more than doubling compared with the corresponding period in 2025. Russian imports from Afghanistan also increased, indicating growing commercial engagement between the two markets.
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Beyond the immediate trade agreements, the discussions covered opportunities to develop transport links, logistics networks and industrial cooperation. Russian companies have shown interest in sectors including pharmaceuticals, agriculture, mineral extraction and infrastructure, while Afghanistan is seeking foreign investment to support industrial development and employment.
The US$103 million agreement package provides a framework for expanding private-sector engagement. Its implementation could help diversify Afghanistan's trade partnerships, improve access to essential imported goods and create new export opportunities for Afghan producers.