Healthcare Costs in Afghanistan Rise by 13.9% Amid Taliban-Pakistan Tensions
Healthcare and medical treatment costs in Afghanistan have risen by 13.9% compared to the previous month, according to a statement by the Taliban-led National Statistics and Information Authority released on Saturday, December 5.
The sharp increase comes as tensions escalate between the Taliban authorities and the government of Pakistan. In response, the Taliban has issued a warning to Afghan traders, instructing them to settle all commercial accounts with Pakistani companies within the next three months. Taliban officials have stated that after this period, the import of medicines from Pakistan will be completely halted.
Despite the fact that a significant portion of Afghanistan’s medical supplies are imported from Pakistan, the Taliban’s decision to ban pharmaceutical imports from the country has sparked serious concern among citizens and healthcare professionals. The move coincides with a notable hike in healthcare prices, further restricting access to medical treatment for vulnerable populations.
Observers cite increasing economic pressure, dwindling international aid, and a lack of transparent healthcare governance under the Taliban administration as the primary factors contributing to the deteriorating state of medical services in Afghanistan. Given the country’s heavy reliance on imported pharmaceuticals, the Taliban’s new policy could plunge the national healthcare system deeper into crisis.
