India and Afghanistan reviewed measures to expand bilateral trade, improve economic cooperation and address barriers affecting business engagement. The discussions focused on trade facilitation, customs coordination, connectivity, banking and sector-specific cooperation.

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• India and Afghanistan held a virtual Joint Working Group meeting on Trade, Commerce and Investment on September 1 to strengthen bilateral economic ties.
• Officials from commerce, industry, customs, regulatory authorities and diplomatic missions participated in the meeting.
• The discussions focused on identifying and addressing trade barriers that affect commercial engagement between the two countries.
• Both sides reviewed measures to strengthen customs cooperation and make cross-border trade procedures smoother.
• Improving regulatory coordination was discussed to create more predictable conditions for businesses operating between India and Afghanistan.
• Visa facilitation for Afghan traders was identified as an important area requiring greater institutional coordination.
• The two sides discussed banking cooperation to support smoother commercial and financial transactions.
• Pharmaceutical trade and agricultural commerce were highlighted as important sectors requiring improved coordination.
• Discussions also covered energy cooperation and investment promotion to expand economic opportunities.
• Both sides examined issues related to tariff concessions, cargo connectivity and port facilities to strengthen trade flows.
• India and Afghanistan agreed to enhance customs data sharing and coordination between relevant authorities.
• The countries emphasized stronger trade connectivity and investment promotion to deepen bilateral economic relations.
• Greater business-to-business engagement was encouraged to create more commercial opportunities and strengthen private-sector linkages.
• Both sides agreed to maintain regular institutional engagement and follow up on the issues identified during the meeting.
• The meeting reflected efforts by India and Afghanistan to build stronger and more efficient channels for trade, investment and commercial cooperation.