Washington – Arg Times: U.S. President Donald Trump announced a new wave of import tariffs on Thursday, affecting dozens of countries, including Afghanistan. Under the revised policy, the tariff on Afghan goods entering the United States will increase from 10 percent to 15 percent.
This move is part of President Trump’s broader trade agenda aimed at reducing the U.S. trade deficit and pressuring trade partners into accepting reciprocal agreements.
The increase comes just months after the initial 10 percent tariff was introduced in April—marking the first time Afghan imports had been subjected to such a tax. With the new 15 percent rate now in effect, Afghan exporters face growing obstacles in reaching U.S. markets.
Afghanistan’s economy, heavily reliant on agricultural exports such as dried fruits, nuts, and medicinal herbs, is expected to feel the brunt of the change. Many Afghan producers already struggle with limited access to international markets due to infrastructure challenges and trade restrictions.
Although Afghanistan’s export volume to the U.S. has historically been modest, this trade has held symbolic and practical significance for small businesses—particularly those catering to Afghan diaspora communities in North America.
The new tariffs, some of which reach as high as 41 percent for other countries, were enacted ahead of the August 1st deadline set by President Trump for bilateral trade negotiations. As a result, Afghan imports are now officially subject to a 15 percent tariff.
