A three-day exhibition in Jalalabad city, Nangarhar, aimed to boost the promotion of local products across various sectors, including agriculture, livestock, and manufacturing. Organised by Masoud Haqmal, the event provided a platform for investors and manufacturers to showcase their products, with 100 diverse booths set up to highlight the region’s economic potential.
According to Haqmal, the exhibition was an important step in fostering the marketing of local products, which he believes is essential for the economic growth of Nangarhar and Afghanistan as a whole. “This exhibition features 100 booths, including sections for agriculture, livestock, and industrial production. Investors and manufacturers are showcasing their products,” said Haqmal, underscoring the event’s role in connecting local businesses with potential buyers.
Aims and objectives
Sayed Abdul Basir Pacha, the head of Nangarhar’s Industry and Commerce Department, stated that the primary goal of the exhibition was to create markets for Afghanistan’s domestic products. This aligns with the broader mission of the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, which strives to foster a more self-sufficient and economically sustainable nation. Pacha pointed out that this was the third exhibition held in Nangarhar, with previous events yielding positive outcomes.
Mohammad Wali Mohsin, the head of Nangarhar’s Agriculture Department, echoed similar sentiments, explaining that the exhibition was designed to market Afghanistan’s agricultural and livestock products, as well as to encourage producers to increase production and quality. A significant portion of the booths was dedicated to agricultural goods, which are vital to the region’s economy.
Local industry concerns
While the exhibition showcased a wide range of local products, there were underlying concerns voiced by local industrialists. Many manufacturers and producers emphasised the need for government support to overcome persistent challenges in the sector. Hayatullah Aka Khel, a representative at one of the booths, stressed the importance of participating in international exhibitions to raise awareness of Afghan products abroad. “It is essential to participate in international exhibitions and introduce our products to the world, so they become aware of what we produce,” Aka Khel stated.
Abdul Hamid Safi, another exhibitor, added that more frequent exhibitions would stimulate trade, increase production, and create job opportunities. “Such exhibitions should be held more frequently in Nangarhar. Traders will come, contracts will be signed, production will increase, and job opportunities will be created for people,” Safi said, highlighting the need for ongoing platforms to support local industries.
Matiullah, a representative from Nangarhar, called on the government to address key infrastructural challenges such as land availability and electricity supply. These are critical for the establishment and growth of manufacturing factories. “The government must support industrialists in key areas such as land and electricity so they can establish manufacturing factories here,” Matiullah said.
Investment opportunities
Local officials have emphasised that Nangarhar offers ample opportunities for investment and that domestic investors should take advantage of these prospects. “We call on our respected traders to attract the attention of investors who have invested abroad so they can invest here in Afghanistan,” said Azizullah Mustafa, the deputy governor of Nangarhar. The provincial government is eager to attract both local and international investors to contribute to the region’s economic development.
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In a show of support, Mohammad Tahir Mubariz, Nangarhar’s deputy police chief, assured exhibitors and attendees that their safety would be a top priority. “We assure you that we will protect your lives, property, honour, markets, and products with our own lives,” Mubariz affirmed, reinforcing the region’s commitment to providing a secure environment for business operations.
Challenges to overcome
Despite the enthusiasm surrounding the exhibition, some domestic producers expressed frustration over ongoing challenges that hinder their ability to grow. These challenges include the influx of imported goods that compete with locally produced items, as well as shortages of raw materials and electricity. Some producers have claimed that while they are close to achieving self-sufficiency, these obstacles continue to impede their progress. The issue of competing imports is particularly problematic for industries such as agriculture and manufacturing, where local products often struggle to compete with cheaper foreign goods.
Conclusion
The exhibition in Nangarhar highlighted both the potential and the challenges faced by local industries. While the event successfully showcased the diversity of products from agriculture, livestock, and manufacturing sectors, it also underscored the need for continued government support and investment in infrastructure to help local businesses thrive. If these issues are addressed, the future of Nangarhar’s economy looks promising, with more opportunities for growth and prosperity.
