Taliban-ruled Afghanistan is set to enhance its trade capabilities with Central Asian states and Pakistan through a new agreement with Dubai-based logistics giant DP World, as reported by multiple sources.
Ariana News reports that the Ministry of Finance of Afghanistan and UAE-based DP World signed an investment term sheet on December 7 to modernize key commercial land ports, marking a significant step in bolstering the country’s trade infrastructure. The deal aims to develop cargo handling facilities, port management systems, and operations using advanced equipment in line with international standards.
As mentioned by Eurasianet, the Taliban government inked the agreement to upgrade cargo handling at critical border crossings, though no financial details were disclosed. WAM, the UAE’s state news agency, described the deal as “a significant step toward modernizing Afghanistan’s principal trade gateways and strengthening its position as a strategic transit corridor linking Central and South Asia.”
Ariana News cites Abdullah Azzam, Head of the Economic Affairs Office at the Office of the Prime Minister, who stated that the agreement opens the door for foreign investment and new contracts, with Afghanistan’s ports to be modernized and equipped with cutting-edge technology. Eurasianet also references Azzam, noting the Hairaton facility will feature such advanced technology.
The project is structured in phases.
The first phase, as detailed by both Ariana News and Eurasianet, involves upgrades to equipment and management systems at the Hairaton land port on the Afghan-Uzbek border, located across from the Uzbek city of Termez. Eurasianet adds that Uzbek officials recently announced the reopening of the Termez border crossing to individuals and traders.
The second phase, according to both sources, will focus on modernization at the Torkham dry port on the Afghan-Pakistani border. Eurasianet highlights that this crossing has experienced a spike in tension in recent months.
A third phase, as outlined by Eurasianet, envisions improvements to internal road and rail infrastructure and the creation of special economic zones. Ariana News expands on this, noting subsequent expansion to logistics corridors, economic zones, and other national projects.
DP World, which specializes in “supply-chain solutions” combining “global reach with on-ground expertise to move your goods wherever they need to go,” as per its website cited by Eurasianet, emphasized in statements reported by Ariana News that the modernization will not only increase trade but also create new employment opportunities. They highlighted Afghanistan’s strategic location as a vital link between Central and South Asia and pledged continued efforts to support the country’s economic growth.
Eurasianet, drawing from the WAM report, notes that DP World will prioritize local employment, skills development, and close collaboration with national partners. Additionally, the Government of Afghanistan will continue to provide sovereign border functions – including customs, immigration, security, and regulatory oversight – working alongside DP World to ensure seamless and secure operations.
Economic analysts, as mentioned by Ariana News, believe the investment will boost trade efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance the country’s transit capacity. It is also expected to attract further foreign investment and strengthen Afghanistan’s overall economy.
Representatives of the Taliban government and DP World held a copy of the deal signed on December 7, as depicted in a photo from the Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs (DPMEA), according to Eurasianet. This initiative clears the way for increased commerce between Central and South Asia. /// nCa, 17 December 2025