Taliban’s Baradar Warns of ‘Hostile Intentions,’ Promises Tax Exemptions for Investors
Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar, Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs of the Taliban administration, warned of what he described as “hostile intentions” against Afghanistan during a graduation ceremony for several Ministry of Defense forces. He emphasized that any threats will be met with a response.
Baradar stated that Afghanistan does not intend to harm any party nor accept damage from others. However, if faced with threats or ill intentions, the response will “not go unanswered,” he said. Referring to the country’s historical past, he added that Afghanistan does not easily bow under pressure and described it as a land intolerant of those who come with motives of domination or hostility.
These remarks come as the Taliban administration seeks to present an image of stability and willingness to engage regionally and internationally. However, some analysts believe such statements are largely for domestic consumption and have yet to be matched by practical steps to reduce tensions and address the legitimate concerns of neighboring countries and the international community.
Meanwhile, the Taliban’s economic deputy announced that in the coming days, full tax exemptions will be granted to domestic and foreign investors for a period ranging from one to five years in new sectors. According to him, the length of the exemption will depend on the level of investment, aimed at encouraging capital inflow into sectors that have been less active so far.
Baradar claimed this measure could rapidly boost these sectors and strengthen the economic infrastructure. At the same time, he cautioned that Afghanistan is not a place for easy profits, and only investors capable of managing difficult economic conditions will survive.
These comments come amid ongoing challenges such as legal insecurity, lack of transparency, and international sanctions, which remain serious obstacles for investors. Critics say that without legal guarantees, political stability, and access to the global financial system, the Taliban’s incentives alone cannot secure sustained investor confidence.
The deputy economic head also stated that he has directed the Ministry of Industry and Trade to expedite the land distribution process for small, medium, and large industries and provide necessary facilities. Critics, however, say that in the absence of structural reforms and transparent accountability, this initiative faces significant skepticism.
