Particle.news
Download on the App Store

India and Afghanistan Announce Direct Air Cargo Link as Kabul Courts Indian Investment

India stops short of recognition, keeping engagement strictly technical.

Overview

  • India's Ministry of External Affairs announced plans for direct cargo flights following Afghan Commerce Minister Nooruddin Azizi's visit to New Delhi.
  • Afghanistan offered Indian firms five-year tax exemptions, low tariffs and free industrial land, and invited proposals for cargo hubs and dry ports.
  • New Delhi maintains limited contacts with the Taliban authorities focused on humanitarian and trade facilitation mechanisms without formal recognition.
  • Regional trade remains constrained by PakistanAfghanistan tensions, periodic border closures and limited capacity at Iran’s Chabahar port, steering interest to air links.
  • No major Indian business chambers announced new investments or large financing during the visit, highlighting the gap between announcements and near-term execution.