Afghanistan opens new revenue center, warns traders over fraud
Officials urge business cooperation but threaten expulsion for import fraud, stressing Islamic values and tighter state oversight
KABUL, Afghanistan (MNTV) — In a bid to enhance transparency in trade and boost investor confidence, the Taliban-led Afghan government has inaugurated a new revenue collection center in Kabul, aimed at regulating the issuance of Certificates of Origin and invoice registration for import-export businesses.
The new facility, launched by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, is intended to ease bureaucratic hurdles and tighten oversight of trade documentation—especially at a time when the country’s economy remains heavily reliant on imports and foreign assistance.
At the opening ceremony, Acting Industry and Commerce Minister Nooruddin Azizi emphasized that the move was not meant to sideline the Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Investment (ACCI), but rather to promote better coordination between state institutions and the private sector.
“Any entrepreneur with capital is welcome here,” Azizi said. “Afghanistan is open for investment—factories, processing of raw materials, and exports. There are challenges, yes, but no nation is built without struggle.”
Azizi also used the occasion to issue a stern warning against fraudulent trade practices, particularly in the oil and gas sector, which has seen growing concerns over diluted or contaminated imports.
“Brother, don’t mix oil with water—for God’s sake, don’t do it,” he said, appealing to business ethics and religious accountability. “The Islamic Emirate has made its decision. A commission has been formed. If you’re caught defrauding people, you’ll be held accountable and expelled from the market.”
Private sector urges clarity, inclusion
Leaders from Afghanistan’s business community cautiously welcomed the initiative, while calling for meaningful inclusion in future economic planning.
Shirbaz Kaminzada, President of the Chamber of Industries and Mines, praised the growing trend of local production. “Our traders are increasingly shifting toward domestic manufacturing,” he said. “When we produce locally, it reduces our reliance on imports.”
Khairuddin Mayel, Deputy Chief of the ACCI, appealed to the government to protect the Chamber’s role in policymaking. “We request that the Chamber be part of all economic mechanisms from the beginning. Informed leadership helps avoid confusion and inefficiency,” he said.
Several participants highlighted the need for transparency in how newly collected revenues are spent, warning that Afghanistan’s fragile economy cannot withstand further mismanagement.
“The public pays with difficulty—revenue must be spent wisely,” one participant said, echoing the sentiment that better fiscal responsibility is essential if Afghanistan hopes to rebuild under ongoing sanctions, limited recognition, and mounting humanitarian need.
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