"Today marks a milestone in Afghanistan’s further integration into the world economy and the multilateral trading system. This process of accession to the WTO is consistent with and reinforces the national agenda with regard to the ongoing economic and trade policy reform in the country," writes the statement.

Afghanistan, as the least developed country in the world, requires strengthening its own trade capacities so that it can gain profit and thus benefit from WTO membership. "In this regard, Afghanistan needs to build its own supply capacity through expanding its productive base, diversifying agriculture into high value added activities and expanding into new areas of dynamic, competitive advantage."

The statement also says that Afghanistan will benefit from its membership in WTO by enhancing exports as well as strengthening its services, domestic markets and foreign investments.

Afghanistan has been a World Trade Organization observer since 13 December 2004.