Construction Begins on Major Petroleum Trade Center in Mazar-i-Sharif

Local Taliban authorities in Afghanistan’s Balkh province have announced the commencement of construction on a major petroleum trade center in Mazar-i-Sharif. The project, which broke ground in a ceremony attended by local officials and private sector representatives, is backed by a $15 million investment.

According to local officials, the petroleum market previously operated at Hairatan Port has recently been relocated to Mazar-i-Sharif. The move aims to enhance fuel quality control, prevent excessive price hikes, and offer improved facilities for traders.

Authorities emphasized that concentrating petroleum trading activities within the city will facilitate better oversight, easier access for traders, and improved market regulation—factors they say will ultimately help stabilize supply and demand.

Several fuel traders have also welcomed the initiative, describing it as economically beneficial. They believe the relocation of the market to Mazar-i-Sharif will streamline transportation, reduce costs, and ensure timely fulfillment of demand in local and neighboring provincial markets.