India recently hosted the Third Working Group meeting on Chabahar Port, highlighting its significance in Afghanistan’s reconstruction and economic growth. The gathering included representatives from India, Iran, Uzbekistan, and the Afghanistan Chambers of Commerce. Discussions focused on establishing an alternative trade route to Central Asia and enhancing regional connectivity through the port.

Chabahar Port’s Role in Regional Trade

The Chabahar Port, located on the Gulf of Oman, is crucial for India’s trade with Central Asia. It offers a route bypassing Pakistan to reach landlocked Afghanistan and Central Asia via the International North-South Transport Corridor. This strategic location was proposed by New Delhi in 2003 and has been developed over the years.

India Ports Global Limited (IPGL) presented the operations of Shahid Beheshti Terminal at Chabahar Port during the meeting. The presentation highlighted facilities available for transit, aiming to boost trade through this strategic port. Participants noted increased transit traffic and explored ways to further enhance connectivity in the region.

Long-term Agreement for Chabahar Port

On May 13, India signed a 10-year contract to operate Chabahar Port, replacing an earlier annual agreement from 2016. This long-term deal between IPGL and Iran’s Port & Maritime Organisation aims to expand India’s trade reach in Central Asia. The agreement underscores India’s commitment to developing this vital trade corridor.

Since December 24, 2018, IPGL has managed Chabahar Port through its subsidiary, India Ports Global Chabahar Free Zone (IPGCFZ). The port has handled over 450 vessels, 1,34,082 TEUs of containerised cargo, and more than 8.7 million tons of bulk cargo. Notably, there was a 1,200 per cent increase in container handling last financial year.

Business Community Engagement

Following the meeting, interactions with the business community took place. Traders showed strong interest in using Chabahar Port for trade and transit activities. They were encouraged to propose ideas to maximise the port’s potential for enhancing trade and transit operations.

The meeting underscored Chabahar Port’s importance as a key player in regional trade dynamics. Its development is pivotal for fostering economic ties between India and Central Asian countries while supporting Afghanistan’s economic recovery efforts.