Afghanistan plans 1,000-acre industrial zone to support small-scale investors

New Herat township aims to boost local production, reduce unemployment, and expand role of women-led businesses

KABUL, Afghanistan (MNTV) — Taliban authorities in Afghanistan’s western province of Herat have unveiled plans to establish a large industrial township designed to support small-scale industries and attract domestic investment.

The proposed industrial zone will span 1,000 acres on the outskirts of Herat city. Local officials say the project aims to reduce unemployment, stimulate local production, and empower entrepreneurs, including women-led enterprises that have grown significantly in recent years.

According to independent media outlet TOLOnews, the township plan has completed land survey and design stages and is awaiting formal approval from the capital.

“The land survey and design work has been completed,” said Mohammad Yousuf Saeedi, spokesperson for the Herat governor. “The proposal will soon be sent to Kabul for approval, and practical work on the 1,000 acres of land will begin shortly.”

The initiative has drawn strong interest from investors. The Herat Chamber of Industries and Mines reported that hundreds of small-scale entrepreneurs are seeking land to establish businesses.

“When our investors submit proposals, we can process their requests more quickly,” said Toryalai Ghowsi, deputy head of the chamber. “Hundreds of investors are waiting for land.”

Officials say the expansion of small industries is critical to building national self-sufficiency and reducing reliance on imports. Mohammad Yousuf Amin, executive head of the Herat Chamber of Commerce and Investment, described the project as a major step toward strengthening Afghanistan’s economy.

“This initiative is highly effective,” he said. “It will reduce our reliance on imports of basic industrial goods, and our traders and investors will contribute to the growth of national trade and economy.”

Authorities also highlighted the growing role of women-led businesses, many of which operate from home-based workshops and have become increasingly active in the province’s industrial landscape.