Afghanistan Signs $46 Million Port Equipment Deal With Indian Firm

Taliban authorities said on Wednesday they signed a $46 million agreement with an Indian company to build and equip laboratory complexes at the country's main border crossings and trade centers.

According to a statement, the five-year contract was signed between the Standards and Quality Administration and Indian international company TCRC for the construction and modernization of laboratories in Kabul and nine border ports across the country.

The project includes laboratory equipment for testing construction materials, electrical equipment, textiles, leather and paper products, officials said.

Taliban authorities said the agreement also covers installation of advanced laboratory systems, repair of existing equipment and training programs for Afghan technical staff, including support for obtaining international ISO certification standards.

Officials described the project as part of broader efforts to strengthen quality control systems, prevent the import of low-quality goods and improve trade infrastructure in Afghanistan.

The deal comes as border tensions and periodic clashes between Taliban forces and Pakistan have disrupted regional trade routes and led to temporary closures of key crossings between the two countries.

The World Food Programme recently warned that prolonged border closures have increased food prices and added pressure on Afghan families already facing severe economic hardship.

India has maintained limited engagement with Taliban authorities since their return to power in 2021, focusing largely on humanitarian assistance and technical cooperation while stopping short of formally recognizing the Kabul administration.

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