A vegetable market in Afghanistan’s Nangarhar province has remained unaffected despite the closure of the Torkham crossing with Pakistan for nearly three months. Officials confirmed that there has been no significant change in vegetable prices, with Nangarhar now self-reliant in this sector. The province has even managed to produce a surplus of fruits and vegetables, redirecting exports to local markets due to the border closure.
Traders in Nangarhar have seen an increase in vegetable production, leading to distribution across various provinces in Afghanistan instead of relying on exports to Pakistan. However, they are calling for the development of cold storage facilities to better preserve their produce. One trader highlighted the need for government support to facilitate vegetable exports to other countries, emphasizing the importance of infrastructure for sustainable trade.
Officials from Nangarhar’s Department of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock mentioned the establishment of several cold storage units in collaboration with the private sector. Plans are underway to construct additional cold storage facilities on a significant land area, following directives from the Taliban administration. Meanwhile, the Taliban regime has emphasized the need for strong assurances from Pakistan before reopening trade routes, citing economic and political pressures faced by both nations.
