New Afghanistan Customs Website Launched
The Ministry of Finance, Customs Department team launched a new website (www.customs.gov.af) this month, which includes valuable new information for the prospective investor or trader.
Visitors to the website can access trade statistics by country, a searchable database of goods/tariff rates applied, full customs codes listings, and many other essential tools to facilitate U.S. – Afghanistan trade. After 25 years of political and economic strife, Afghanistan is well on its way to regain its position as a strong trading partner with neighboring, regional, and global partners.
This online initiative will encourage a smoother, more streamlined process for moving goods across borders. As customs are the government’s single most important source of revenue, such efforts will allow for more efficient provision of public services to the Afghan people. The enhanced web presence follows significant reforms including computerization of key border facilities, and Afghanistan’s membership in the internationally recognized ASCYUDA automated customs clearance system.
Afghanistan provides the connecting route for all landlocked countries across Central Asia to the sea ports of the Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf. The North-South road corridors connect Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan through Afghanistan to the main neighboring Pakistani ports of Karachi, Qasim and Gwadar, while the East-West Corridor connects the Central Asian states to the Iranian ports of Chabahar and Bandar Abbas.
As regional trade and commerce is increased and enhanced, successful customs reforms and the application of customs procedures based on internationally renowned standards and practices will become increasingly critical. Afghanistan is taking bold new steps to ensure that its future as a vital trading partner is secure and strong.
