KABUL, July 17 (Xinhua) -- Exports from northern Afghanistan's Balkh province to Central Asian countries more than tripled in the first quarter of the current year, local media Tolo news reported Friday.
The export volume reached over 67 million U.S. dollars, up from 21 million U.S. dollars in the same period last year, the Balkh Chamber of Commerce and Investment announced.
The chamber attributed the sharp increase to improved trade facilitation and stronger economic cooperation with regional countries. Carpets, Karakul pelts, and fresh and dried fruits were among the province's main export products, the report said.
The growth reflects Afghanistan's ongoing efforts to expand regional trade and strengthen economic ties with Central Asian countries through its northern trade routes, it said. ■