The National Statistics and Information Authority (NSIA) states that Afghanistan’s cotton production has increased by 30% this year compared to last year, reaching nearly 160,000 tons.
Mohammad Halim Rafi, the NSIA spokesman for the authority, said that Helmand province accounts for the highest cotton production.
Cotton, which holds significant economic value globally, is primarily cultivated in the southern, northern, and northeastern regions of Afghanistan.
Mohammad Halim Rafi said: “Our figures indicate that 159,000 tons of cotton have been produced in 15 provinces, with the highest amount, 80,000 tons, belonging to Helmand. Our analysis shows that [Afghanistan’s] cotton production has increased by 30% compared to last year.”
According to the published statistics, Helmand, with 80,000 metric tons, Balkh with over 34,000 metric tons, Kandahar with over 11,000 metric tons, Jawzjan with nearly 11,000 metric tons, and Nangarhar with over 5,000 metric tons, are the provinces with the highest cotton production.
Additionally, the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock has announced efforts to establish domestic and international markets for selling this product.
Misbahuddin Mustaeen, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock, stated: “Cotton, which has both oil and industrial value, needs to be marketed both domestically and internationally. We need to work in this area and create opportunities for its export, although little work has been done so far.”
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Some economic experts believe that expanding exports alongside increasing domestic production can play a crucial role in reducing dependence on imports, preventing additional costs, and promoting Afghanistan’s economic growth.
“The more we export, the more we can generate revenue and create employment opportunities. However, the key point is that we must take advantage of this opportunity.
Despite the government’s efforts to increase exports and support domestic production, it is now essential that producers also work harder to ensure that domestic goods meet global standards and requirements,”said Abdul Nasser Rashtia Economic expert.
Cotton is one of Afghanistan’s key export commodities. According to data from the National Statistics and Information Authority, last year, Afghanistan exported cotton worth $273 million.
This news is sourced from [Tolo News] and is for informational purposes only.
