Turkmenistan decreases import, export tariffs for Afghan goods
By Kamila Aliyeva
The officials of the Afghanistan’s Chamber of Commerce and Industries (ACCI) said on Monday, May 14, that Turkmenistan reduced tariffs for imports and exports between the two countries, Tolonews TV channel reported.
Turkmenistan has decided to ease the process of cross-border trade between the two nations in order to develop trade and economic relations.
The reduction of tariffs will boost the export from Afghanistan and the process of import from Turkmenistan to Afghanistan, according to the officials.
Turkmenistan also undertakes to help ensure the security of goods, the maintenance of the railway line and railroad cars, as well as provide loading services. Turkmenistan also committed to provide these services to Afghan traders not only in the country, but also in the land port of Aqina.
The tariffs have been reduced by approximately 50 percent, and in some cases they have reduced the expenses more than 50 percent, according to ACCI deputy chief Khan Jan Alokozai
“For instance, whenever we could not manage to unload our wagons within 24 hours, we had to pay $300 for that, but now this tariff has been removed completely,” he said.
According to the ACCI’s data, the volume of exports of Afghan goods to a neighboring country is insignificant, but Turkmenistan serves as a key corridor for the transit of products to the markets of Russia and Turkey.
Following the opening of new Turkmenbashi International Seaport, Turkmenistan aims to become a transport hub between its landlocked neighbor Afghanistan and European markets.
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Kamila Aliyeva is AzerNews’ staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Kami_Aliyeva
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