The Ministry of Finance of Afghanistan has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United Arab Emirates–based global port operator DP World to modernize and upgrade the country’s major trade gateways, in a move aimed at strengthening infrastructure and boosting regional connectivity.

Under the agreement, the focus will be on the expansion and modernization of the Hairatan and Torkham ports, two of Afghanistan’s most important commercial entry and exit points. The project includes upgrading facilities, introducing modern port management technologies, and aligning operations with international standards of safety, efficiency and logistics.

Afghan officials said the partnership is expected to attract foreign investment, streamline customs and transit procedures, and significantly improve trade flows with neighboring countries and global markets. By improving handling capacity and reducing transit delays, authorities believe the initiative will lower trade costs and make Afghanistan a more competitive regional transit hub.

The Ministry of Finance stated that the agreement forms part of a broader strategy to modernize national infrastructure and integrate Afghanistan more effectively into regional supply chains. Officials also emphasized that enhanced port infrastructure would strengthen economic resilience, create employment opportunities and support long-term national development.

DP World, one of the world’s leading port and logistics companies, has experience operating and upgrading major ports and terminals across Asia, the Middle East and Africa. The company is expected to provide technical expertise, operational support and training as part of the cooperation.

Further technical assessments and implementation plans are expected to be finalized in the coming weeks as both sides move toward operationalizing the agreement. (ILKHA)