The Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MoIC) reported that in the year 1402, the country exported over 2,500 tons of pine nuts, valued at $27 million.

The spokesperson for the ministry, Akhundzada Abdul Salam Javad, said that the largest exports of pine nuts were to China, India, Pakistan, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States.

“During the year 1402, the total export of black pine nuts amounted to 2,523 tons, valued at $27 million,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Industries emphasized the need for more air corridors to increase the export of pine nuts.

“If we establish air cargo facilities that allow us to transport goods to the required countries at reasonable prices, it will generate good revenue and also be beneficial for the Afghan economy,” said Sakhi Ahmad Payman, the first deputy of the Chamber of Industries and Mines.

Afghan pine nuts, known for their superior quality, are in high demand in other countries, including China. However, several farmers have reported that the yield of pine nuts decreased in the year 1402.

The Chamber of Agriculture and Livestock stated that ongoing drought has significantly reduced the yield of pine nuts, posing serious challenges for the farmers.

"Our agriculture is dependent on water, and pine nuts are a very valuable sector, often referred to as 'black gold.' It is essential to find good markets for this 'black gold,'” said Mirwais Hajizadeh, deputy of the Chamber of Agriculture and Livestock.

According to the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, in the solar year 1401, Afghan pine nuts worth $49 million were exported abroad, with the majority of exports going to Pakistan, China, and India.