Transit Affairs Discussion with Newly Appointed Director

AFFCO News

n a pivotal meeting today, leadership of Afghanistan’s Freight Forwarders Association (AFFCO) engaged with newly appointed Transit Director Abdul Qahar Mahmoodi to tackle pressing issues facing the nation’s transit sector.

Key Developments:

1. New Leadership, Renewed Commitment

   • Director Mahmoodi assumed office this week, pledging close collaboration with private sector stakeholders

   • AFFCO leadership presented comprehensive challenges requiring immediate intervention

2. Critical Sector Challenges Raised

   • Border Customs Issues: Systemic exclusion of freight forwarders from T1 customs documentation

   • Port Operations: Disruptions from relocated loading zones at Hairatan Port’s new “Common Market”

   • Infrastructure: Delays in land allocation at Islam Qala border crossing

3. AFFCO Proposes Solutions

   • Offered to establish port representation offices using existing member facilities

   • Presented case for standardized documentation including freight forwarders

   • Requested ministerial intervention on port operational disruptions

Notable Commitments
Director Mahmoodi promised:
✓ Elevate issues to ministerial level
✓ Establish working groups with AFFCO
✓ Fast-track resolution of Hairatan Port logistics

Participating Organizations
The meeting brought together:

• AFFCO executive leadership

• Major transport companies including Ettefaq Bamyan and Amin Shegal

• Senior Transit Directorate officials

Quotes
“We need systemic solutions, not temporary fixes,” stated AFFCO CEO Haji Anisullah Hamdard.

Director Mahmoodi responded: “Your expertise guides our policy. Expect concrete actions within weeks.”

Next Steps

• Formal proposals due to MoIC by May 25

• Follow-up meeting scheduled for June 5