Economic

  • Afghan refugees in a controlled area with military presence

    Russia Critiques West’s Handling of Afghan Refugees Amid Growing Concerns

    The Russian Foreign Ministry has condemned the West’s inconsistent policies towards Afghan refugees, highlighting stricter asylum barriers and forced expulsions from the US and European nations. With over 1,000 refugees in uncertain conditions in Qatar, the Kremlin calls for greater international support and adherence to human rights.

    Tuesday, 29 September , 2026
  • a pile of ripe pomegranates piled on the ground and grass

    Kandahar Pomegranate Farmers Face Crisis Amid Declining Yields and Prices

    Pomegranate growers in Kandahar are struggling as this year’s harvest plummets to 220,000 tons, nearly 30% lower than last year. Drought, pest issues, and border closures with Pakistan are impacting both yield and market prices, forcing farmers to confront significant losses and urging authorities for immediate action.

    Monday, 28 September , 2026
  • The blue flag of Kazakhstan with the symbol of the sun and a golden eagle above a pole.

    Herat’s Trade Boom: Exchanges with Kazakhstan Reach $581 Million

    Officials in Herat have announced a remarkable increase in trade with Kazakhstan, with commercial transactions soaring to $581 million over the last six months. During a meeting between Herat’s governor and a visiting Kazakh delegation, discussions highlighted the importance of enhancing transit capacities and overcoming customs hurdles. Kazakhstan has also invited Afghan officials to an upcoming economic summit, aiming to solidify the growing trade ties further.

    Monday, 28 September , 2026
  • A hand holding a stack of banknotes with news text about trade between Afghanistan and Uzbekistan

    Traders in Afghanistan Turn to Exchange Offices as Banking Challenges Persist

    In Afghanistan, ongoing banking difficulties are prompting both traders and the public to favor exchange offices and remittance systems over traditional banks. With cumbersome administrative processes, limited foreign currency access, and high transaction costs, financial experts warn that a prolonged dependence on these informal systems could lead to economic stagnation and increased isolation from global markets.

    Sunday, 27 September , 2026
  • young man counting Afghan notes next to bundles of money

    Afghan Families Struggling Amid Soaring Food Prices and Economic Crisis

    As food prices escalate dramatically, Afghan families are grappling with a worsening economic landscape. Recent reports highlight a significant increase in inflation, particularly in food, causing immense strain on household budgets and raising concerns of severe food insecurity for millions. With reliance on imports and political tensions contributing to supply chain issues, families are being forced to make difficult choices to meet their basic needs.

    Saturday, 26 September , 2026
  • Torkham border gate with the inscription Pakistan Gate Torkham and the flag of Pakistan

    Afghan Farmers in Crisis as Trade Route Closures Slash Grape Prices

    The closure of the Torkham border with Pakistan and a lack of adequate cold storage facilities have plunged Afghan farmers into a dire financial situation. Prices for grapes have dramatically fallen, with reports indicating price drops from 100 to just 60 Afghanis per seer in some areas. Economic experts highlight the urgent need for alternative trade routes and better storage solutions to prevent further losses and protect the livelihoods of those dependent on agriculture.

    Friday, 25 September , 2026
  • Human Rights Advocates Push for Renewal of Richard Bennett’s Mandate in Afghanistan

    Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch are leading a coalition advocating for the extension of Richard Bennett’s role as UN Special Rapporteur on Human Rights in Afghanistan. During the ongoing 63rd session of the Human Rights Council, they emphasized the urgent need to address the rights of women and minorities in Afghanistan and called for an independent investigative mechanism to document ongoing violations.

    Wednesday, 23 September , 2026
  • a pile of fresh and raw fish stacked on top of each other

    Fish Prices Soar in Nangarhar Amid Torkham Border Closure

    The closure of the Torkham border crossing has caused fish prices in Nangarhar to surge, with costs more than doubling, putting a strain on low-income families. As the cold season approaches, buyers struggle to afford this essential food item, while sellers warn that prices may rise further if trade routes remain shut.

    Wednesday, 23 September , 2026
  • Three young girls with colorful scarves in an indoor setting, with the girl in front looking at the camera wearing a red scarf

    Diplomats Urge Robust Inclusion of Afghan Women in Peace Talks at UN Assembly

    At the 81st United Nations General Assembly, diplomats highlighted the urgent need for Afghan women’s active participation in political processes and peace negotiations. The meeting, titled ‘Women, Peace, Justice, and National Reconciliation in Afghanistan,’ showcased calls for a global shift in perspective, emphasizing women as leaders rather than mere victims. As challenges intensify under Taliban rule, advocates stress that excluding women from these discussions jeopardizes stability and reconciliation efforts in the country.

    Wednesday, 23 September , 2026
  • Afghan currency

    Economic Growth in Afghanistan Overshadowed by Declining Per Capita Income and Rising Poverty

    Despite an anticipated 4.8% growth in Afghanistan’s economy, both the World Bank and UNDP express alarm over a significant decline in per capita income by 5.6%. This troubling trend highlights the dual challenges of increasing poverty levels and the return of millions of Afghan migrants, placing further strain on the livelihoods of local residents.

    Tuesday, 22 September , 2026
  • The hands of a person holding a thick bundle of banknotes with a yellow rubber band.

    Afghanistan-Uzbekistan Trade Surpasses $2 Billion in 2026

    In an impressive economic development, trade between Afghanistan and Uzbekistan has exceeded $2 billion in the first eight months of 2026, a significant jump from previous years. Meetings in Balkh Province have emphasized the importance of boosting these trade relations, leading to the signing of 22 agreements aimed at further enhancing economic collaboration and expanding market opportunities.

    Monday, 21 September , 2026
  • Rows of flags of various countries in front of the United Nations building in Geneva

    OIC to Address Afghanistan at Upcoming UN General Assembly Meeting

    The Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has announced a ministerial contact group meeting dedicated to Afghanistan, which will take place alongside the UN General Assembly in New York. This meeting aims to address Afghanistan’s humanitarian, political, and economic challenges, continuing ongoing dialogues with Taliban officials and enhancing coordination among member states.

    Monday, 21 September , 2026
  • A group of political figures at a meeting or ceremony holding the flag of Afghanistan.

    Political Parties in Exile Navigate Ban Imposed by Taliban

    Three years after the Taliban’s ban on political parties in Afghanistan, leaders of various parties continue their activism from abroad, engaging in covert operations within the country. While some, like Mohammad Mohaghegh, denounce the ban as authoritarian, challenges persist, especially for female leaders facing increased scrutiny. The international community remains divided, engaging with the Taliban yet withholding official recognition, while the Taliban shows no intent to relax restrictions on political activities.

    Sunday, 20 September , 2026
  • Taliban Warns Pakistan Against Military Action in Afghanistan

    Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid has issued a stark warning to Pakistan, stating that any military operations on Afghan soil will be met with a robust response. He called on Saudi Arabia to mediate the escalating tensions, emphasizing the importance of diplomatic engagement in resolving conflicts between the two neighboring countries. Mujahid also rejected Pakistan’s claims of Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan activities in Afghanistan, reiterating the Taliban’s commitment to preventing the use of its territory for any anti-Pakistan operations.

    Sunday, 20 September , 2026
  • طالبان taliban

    Taliban’s Use of Uzbek and Chechen Fighters to Target Political Rivals in Northern Afghanistan

    Security investigations have uncovered a troubling trend in northern Afghanistan where Taliban leader Hibatullah Akhundzada has deployed extremist fighters from Uzbekistan and Chechnya. Engaged in targeted assassinations against rivals, including those linked to the Haqqani faction, these operatives are integrated within the Taliban’s intelligence framework. Recent killings, such as the murder of a family associated with the National Resistance Front in Mazar-e Sharif, have raised serious concerns about the escalating violence and the complicity of local authorities in concealing these operations.

    Saturday, 19 September , 2026
  • Afghanistan Sees Notable Export Surge Amid Declining Imports

    In October, Afghanistan’s exports rose significantly by $45.1 million, reaching a total of $274.9 million, according to the Taliban’s National Statistics and Information Administration. Meanwhile, imports fell by $64.2 million, leading to a trade deficit that exceeds $1 billion. Key export destinations included India, Pakistan, Turkey, and the UAE, while imports were primarily sourced from Iran, China, and Pakistan.

    Saturday, 19 September , 2026
  • Taliban’s Border Forces Bolstered by Uyghur Fighters: A New Threat to Central Asia and China

    Recent intelligence reports reveal that the Taliban has recruited trained Uyghur fighters and members of the Ansar Allah group to strengthen their border operations in northeastern Afghanistan. This move has raised concerns among security experts, who warn that it threatens stability in Central Asia and poses risks to Chinese interests. The Taliban’s collaboration with these factions is seen as a strategic effort to exert pressure on regional neighbors, particularly through coordinated attacks on Tajikistan, while potentially receiving support from external actors.

    Saturday, 19 September , 2026
  • Turkey Bolsters Mediation Role as Erdoğan Meets with Pakistan’s Prime Minister

    During the International Peace and Trust Summit, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan discussed the expansion of economic ties with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, highlighting Turkey’s commitment to supporting the ceasefire between Pakistan and Afghanistan. Erdoğan emphasized Turkey’s readiness to facilitate peace efforts amidst rising tensions between the two nations.

    Saturday, 19 September , 2026
  • A man with a black and white turban speaks behind a news desk

    Taliban Interior Minister Critiques Governance by Fear in Unprecedented Remarks

    In a candid admission, Sirajuddin Haqqani, the Taliban’s Interior Minister, acknowledged the use of violence and fear by the current Kabul rulers to maintain control. During an appearance in Khost Province, he called for an end to these oppressive practices, advocating for a governance model based on love, trust, and a respectful relationship with citizens.

    Saturday, 19 September , 2026
  • Afghanistan Braces for Possible Flooding as Heavy Rainfall Approaches

    The Taliban’s Ministry of Water and Energy has issued a warning about potential flooding affecting 12 provinces in Afghanistan, including major areas like Herat and Kandahar, on December 13 and 14. Residents are urged to stay away from rivers as heavy rainfall is expected in several river basins, increasing the risk of dangerous conditions.

    Saturday, 19 September , 2026