HERAT, AFGHANISTAN – Afghanistan is rapidly positioning itself as a premier supplier of high-value medicinal plants. In a significant trade milestone, exports through Herat province have tripled over the past nine months, reaching key global markets including the United States, Russia, and the UAE.
Record-Breaking Export Figures
According to the Herat Chamber of Commerce and Investment, over 22,000 metric tons of medicinal and aromatic plants—valued at more than $24 million—were exported between March and December 2025. This surge highlights a growing international demand for Afghan agricultural products despite regional logistics challenges.
Diverse Product Range & Quality Standards
The export portfolio includes a variety of high-demand botanical products, such as:
Licorice Root and Barberry Wood
Black and Green Cumin
Thyme, Rosemary, and Aloe Vera
Ginger and Cinnamon
Trade officials attribute this growth to standardized processing techniques and improved quality control, making Afghan products more competitive in Western markets.
Strategic Shift in Trade Routes
A notable shift in logistics has contributed to Herat’s rise as a central hub. Due to ongoing trade disruptions along Pakistan’s border routes, Afghan exporters are increasingly utilizing the Islam Qala and Torghundi crossings. This strategic pivot has streamlined access to Iran, Central Asia, and beyond.
Empowering Local Farmers
The Herat Directorate of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock confirmed that the cultivation of medicinal plants is rapidly expanding across the province. Local agricultural officials report a significant transition as farmers shift from traditional crops toward these high-demand, lucrative botanicals. To sustain this momentum, the provincial directorate, under the framework of the Ministry of Agriculture, provides specialized training, modern tools, and extension services to ensure local products meet international export standards.
