Afghanistan targets economic revival through industry boom
Officials say 6,000 factories now employ 135,000 people as Kabul seeks industrial revival and reduced reliance on imports
KABUL, Afghanistan (MNTV) — Afghanistan’s Taliban-led government has announced significant progress toward economic self-reliance, claiming full self-sufficiency in 130 sectors and partial self-sufficiency in 100 others, as part of efforts to revive domestic industry and reduce dependence on imports.
The announcement was made by the Economic Deputy Office of the Prime Minister and reported by Tolo News, which cited officials as saying that around 6,000 industrial factories across the country have created jobs for 135,000 people. These factories currently produce 570 types of goods — including essential items like flour, salt, oil, cement, iron, steel, and pharmaceuticals.
“These factories produce 570 types of goods… and have provided direct employment for 135,000 people,” said Hamdullah Fitrat, deputy spokesperson of the Islamic Emirate.
While officials portray this as a turning point in Afghanistan’s industrial revival, local economic experts caution that sustained growth will depend on energy access, investment support, and a clear industrial policy.
“The government has a responsibility to facilitate production factors for attracting investment and developing domestic industries,” said Abdul Nasir Reshtia, an Afghan economic analyst. “If policies around land, energy, and finance are implemented effectively, there’s no doubt we will see increased exports and job creation.”
Qutbuddin Yaqubi, another economic expert, echoed the need for broader structural support. “To strengthen this sector, we need to promote domestic products, incentivize investors, and expand marketing channels both within and outside the country,” he said.
According to the Economic Deputy Office, the Taliban-led administration has already begun taking steps to support the private sector — including allocating land for factories, lowering customs tariffs, combating smuggling, and organizing trade exhibitions to promote Afghan products.
While the country still faces severe economic challenges following years of conflict and international sanctions, authorities are framing industrial growth as a path toward long-term stability and self-reliance.
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