Kazakhstan and Afghanistan are accelerating efforts to transform their economic partnership, with both countries targeting an ambitious $3 billion in bilateral trade in the coming years.

The goal was highlighted at the annual Kazakhstan-Afghanistan Business Forum in Kabul, where Kazakhstan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy, Serik Zhumangarin, and Afghanistan’s Minister of Industry and Commerce, Haji Nooruddin Azizi, opened discussions aimed at expanding trade, investment, and industrial cooperation, The Caspian Post reports via Kazinform.

More than 50 Kazakh companies participated in the forum, representing sectors including agriculture, engineering, technology, chemicals, and information technology. Government officials and businessmen explored new opportunities to strengthen commercial links between the two countries.

Bilateral trade reached $541.8 million by the end of 2025, but both sides believe the relationship has far greater potential. Kazakhstan views Afghanistan as a strategic partner and an important logistics gateway connecting Central and South Asia.

Officials outlined plans to expand the range of traded products, remove logistical and certification barriers, encourage direct business partnerships, and promote e-commerce initiatives. Kazakhstan also expressed readiness to increase exports of grain, flour, oilseeds, construction materials, pharmaceuticals, and industrial equipment.

Beyond exports, Astana is seeking deeper industrial cooperation through joint ventures in Afghanistan, particularly in food production, agricultural processing, and textile manufacturing.

Businessmen pointed to tangible results from previous forums. Yadykar Ibragimov, Chairman of the Kazakhstan Association of the Oil and Fat Industry, revealed that sunflower oil exports to Afghanistan have surged dramatically since 2023. Shipments rose from 17,000 tons during the 2022-2023 season to 75,000 tons this season, with a target of up to 120,000 tons next year.

The forum also showcased Kazakhstan’s growing technological capabilities. Among the innovations presented was the BARK VibroLUNG pulmonary vibroacoustic therapy device, designed to improve respiratory function and support rehabilitation for patients with respiratory illnesses.

Another highlight was the HES-7 mobile diagnostic system developed by Konsung Technology LLP. Powered by artificial intelligence, the technology enables rapid health assessments, including cardiovascular, liver, kidney, lung, and diabetes diagnostics, assisting medical professionals to make faster treatment decisions.

Following the event, the two sides are expected to sign a $45 million agreement for the delivery of 4,500 units of the AI-powered mobile diagnostic equipment to Afghanistan.