Afghan Business Leaders Criticize Taliban Over Transport and Investment Security
A group of national businesspeople and members of Afghanistan’s Chamber of Commerce and Investment have voiced concerns over economic challenges and obstacles facing trade and investment during a meeting with Mawlawi Abdul Salam Hanafi, the Taliban administration’s Deputy Prime Minister for Administrative Affairs.
The traders emphasized that ensuring the safety of lives and property, facilitating investment procedures, and creating a secure economic environment are among their most pressing needs. They called on the Taliban authorities to give special attention to improving the transport of goods and the overall transportation infrastructure.
According to the business leaders, inefficiencies in transportation infrastructure have not only driven up costs but have also slowed both domestic and international trade, discouraging potential investors.
In response, Mawlawi Hanafi acknowledged the importance of investors in the country’s development and economic growth. He stated that the Taliban administration is prepared to support investment in areas such as manufacturing, exports, and mining.
Although Taliban officials claim that conditions are favorable for investment, many economic stakeholders remain concerned about ongoing insecurity, lack of transparency in economic regulations, and the absence of consistent support for the private sector. Until these issues are properly addressed, businesses are likely to remain hesitant about entering or expanding in Afghanistan’s economic arena.
