Islamabad: The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has the potential to significantly boost Afghanistan's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by up to 6% every year, according to the Pakistan China Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCJCCI). This projection comes as Afghanistan is increasingly viewed as a crucial hub in the expanding trade and transit network of the region.

Acting PCJCCI President, Zafar Iqbal, emphasized CPEC's transformative potential for Afghanistan, particularly as Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and other Central Asian Republics plan to utilize Gwadar Port. This shift positions Afghanistan as a land-linked trade corridor connecting Central Asia, South Asia, and the Middle East.

Afghanistan's agricultural sector, a major source of livelihood, is also expected to see substantial gains through enhanced infrastructure and market access provided by CPEC. The PCJCCI estimates a potential doubling of agricultural production within five years.

With its strategic location and access to vast consumer markets, Afghanistan becomes a key player in Eurasian trade. Integration into CPEC could also attract significant foreign mining investments, leveraging Afghanistan’s estimated $1–3 trillion in untapped mineral reserves.

Planned infrastructure projects, such as the Kabul-Peshawar rail link and over 3,000 km of new road and rail connections, will link Afghanistan with Gwadar and Karachi ports. Access to Gwadar Port alone could reduce Afghanistan's import and export expenses by 30–40%.

The development also promises to create over 150,000 jobs through Special Economic Zones (SEZs) focused on manufacturing, logistics, and technology. These SEZs aim to integrate Afghanistan's economy with global supply chains and attract $6–8 billion in foreign direct investment over the next decade.

CPEC's energy projects could supply up to 1,000 MW of electricity to Afghanistan, reducing its dependence on imported power and promoting local energy production through solar, wind, and hydro projects. PCJCCI Secretary General, Salahuddin Hanif, emphasized the role of SEZs in youth empowerment, skills development, and entrepreneurship.