ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Afghanistan have signed a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA), marking a significant step toward strengthening bilateral economic ties.
The agreement, which includes an Early Harvest Program, will come into effect on August 1, 2025, and remain valid for one year, with the possibility of renewal.
The PTA was signed by Afghanistan’s Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce Mullah Ahmadullah Zahid and Pakistan’s Secretary of Commerce Jawad Paul. The signing was confirmed by Pakistan’s Special Representative for Afghanistan Mohammad Sadiq via a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Under the agreement, both countries have agreed to reduce tariffs on 44 goods. Tariff rates on selected items have been reduced from 60% to 27%. Key exports from Pakistan to Afghanistan will include mangoes, oranges, bananas, and potatoes, while Afghanistan will export grapes, pomegranates, apples, and tomatoes to Pakistan.
The agreement includes provisions for the inclusion of more products in the future. Both sides have expressed full commitment to enhancing bilateral trade and economic cooperation.
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