برنامه جهانی خوراک: بسته‌ماندن گذرگاه‌ها، بازار افغانستان را متاثر کرده است

As commercial crossings between Afghanistan and Pakistan remain closed, the World Food Programme (WFP) has reported a rise in the cost of basic food items across Afghan markets.

According to WFP, alongside the border closures, an increase in fuel prices and the closure of the Salang Highway have driven up transportation costs, leading to higher food prices.

Several shopkeepers in Kabul say that in the past two weeks, the prices of essentials like flour, rice, and cooking oil have risen by up to 100 afghanis.

Mahiuddin, a Kabul resident, said: “Previously it was 1,400 AFN (over $20), and now it’s up to 1,550 AFN. Ever since the tension between Afghanistan and Pakistan started, prices have gone up, businesses are down, and people are struggling.”

Ajmal, another Kabul resident, said: “From morning to night I’m out here, and my day is wasted. I have a pushcart and make about 50 afghanis a day. I don’t know what to do.”

Based on gathered data from the past two weeks:
A bag of flour has increased from 1,400 to 1,530 AFN
A bag of rice from 2,300 to 2,400 AFN
A 16-liter container of cooking oil from 1,480 to 1,600 AFN

Mohammad Amin, a shopkeeper, added: “Oil prices have gone up by 100 AFN, and flour and rice have also become more expensive.”

Meanwhile, several drivers in Kabul have also complained about the high cost of fuel. Despite a drop in the dollar exchange rate, fuel and gas prices in the market remain high.

Farid Ahmad, a driver, said: “The dollar has gone down, but fuel prices are still up. Previously, they used the rising dollar as an excuse, but now that it’s dropped, prices should be controlled. People are struggling financially.”

Ramin, another driver, added: “Our demand from the government is to control fuel and gas prices so that those who work hard in Afghanistan can at least see the result of their efforts.”

Afghanistan imports most of its essential goods, including flour, rice, and oil, from countries such as Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia, Uzbekistan, Pakistan, and China. Any trade disruptions with these countries often directly impact the price of food in Afghan markets.