China Grants Tariff-Free Trade to Taliban, Eyes Afghan Minerals

Beijing offers economic incentives to Afghanistan's Taliban regime, seeking access to untapped mineral resources while avoiding formal recognition.

China will allow Afghanistan tariff-free access to its construction, energy, and consumer sectors, despite not formally recognizing the Taliban government.
The Taliban aims to leverage this agreement to attract foreign investment and develop its vast mineral wealth, including lithium, copper, and iron.
Afghanistan's exports to China, primarily shelled pine nuts, totaled $64 million last year, but the Taliban seeks to diversify its economic activities.
China's interest in Afghanistan's mineral resources aligns with its broader strategy to secure supply chains and enhance regional connectivity.
The Taliban has expressed interest in joining the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, which could facilitate further economic collaboration with Beijing.