New Delhi: Afghanistan has begun export to India through Chabahar port on Sunday. This new initiative started as the landlocked country turns to overseas markets to improve its economy. 

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani flagged off the first consignment of Afghan exports to India through Chabahar Port on Sunday.

During the inaugural event of the new export route in Zaranj city in western Nimroz province,  Ashraf Ghani said Chabahar port is the result of healthy cooperation between India, Afghanistan and Iran. 

On Sunday, Afghan carpets, cotton, dry fruits, stones and talc were sent from the country. As per sources, it is expected to increase Afghan exports to India by more than 40%.

Ashraf Ghani added that with the opening of exports through Chabahar route, Afghanistan’s exports will double up to $ 2 billion from the current $ 1 billion in the next year.

Indian ambassador Vinay Kumar, while speaking on the occasion, said Afghanistan’s exports to India have increased by 40% after the launch of air corridor between Kabul and New Delhi.

According to the officials, a total of 23 trucks carrying 57 tonnes of dried fruits, textiles, carpets and mineral products were dispatched from Zaranj to Chabahar port to be shipped to Mumbai.

The Iranian port provides easy access to the sea to Afghanistan and India has helped develop this route to allow both countries to engage in trade bypassing Pakistan.