KABUL, Afghanistan – Prominent Afghan businessman Khan Jan Al-Wakozi, who is a senior member of the Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Investment (ACCI), has praised the decisions taken by the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan regarding its recent regional trade policies. Speaking to reporters in Kabul, Al-Wakozi described the government’s decision to temporarily suspend transit operations to Pakistan as a “bold and positive step” aimed at protecting national economic interests.
Al-Wakozi stressed that Afghan businessmen and business leaders stand “side by side” with the government. To strengthen the country’s trade autonomy and promote an equal partnership in regional trade. “We support every measure that ensures balance and respect for cross-border trade. This recent decision shows that Afghanistan is ready to protect its economic dignity.
The temporary suspension of some transit routes was an unavoidable reaction, according to Al-Wakozi, as Afghan traders have long faced logistical and customs problems at border crossings. He said the Afghan business community had long been demanding fair trade agreements and an end to unnecessary restrictions on exports and imports. “Our traders have suffered years of delays, losses, and unfair restrictions. The move sends a message that Afghanistan wants fair trade, not unilateral dependency.
Officials at the Ministry of Commerce and Industry recently confirmed that the transit restrictions were imposed following complaints from a number of Afghan exporters, who had pointed out long delays and irregularities in trade through Pakistan. According to the ministry, discussions are underway at the diplomatic and technical levels to resolve these issues.
Al-Wakozi added that Afghanistan’s economic strategy should focus on diversifying trade routes and building strong partnerships with Central Asia, Iran and China. “Afghanistan does not need a one-way street. We must look to the north and west. So that balanced trade relations are established which are beneficial for our industrialists and economy.
Alukozie’s statements come at a time when As Afghanistan tries to stabilize its economy amid regional complexities and a changing trade situation. Experts say the temporary restrictions on Pakistan transit routes may affect the supply chain in the long run, but the move will also encourage investment in alternative routes and internal infrastructure.
Many economists have endorsed Alukozi’s message of self-reliance. He said Afghanistan’s long-term economic stability depends on the development of diverse export routes and the strengthening of domestic production capacity. “The key is not isolation but diversity,” said a trade expert in Kabul. If policies are coordinated and practical, Afghanistan has the potential to become a regional trade hub.
Alukozi’s support for the government’s trade policy indicates that cooperation between the private sector and public institutions is increasing. Over the past few months, the Islamic Emirate has held a series of meetings with business representatives to discuss export promotion, customs reform, and investment opportunities. Many traders have termed these measures as a sign of growing synergy between the government and the business community.
While Afghanistan’s traders face challenges such as limited banking facilities, exchange volatility, and border delays, they are constantly adapting. ACCI has urged the government to maintain a balance between protecting national interests and keeping regional trade routes open to avoid shortages and inflation.
In conclusion, Khan Jan Al Quozi expressed his determination that the private sector is ready to cooperate with the government in all matters of national economic development. “We are united for the economic development of Afghanistan. Our goal is a self-reliant Afghanistan, with trade relations based on mutual respect and equality.
