Wheat Prices in Afghanistan Rise 21% Amid Economic Strain, WFP Reports
The World Food Programme (WFP) has reported that despite active markets in Afghanistan, food prices remain high, and the shortage of job opportunities has intensified economic pressure on families. According to the report, wheat prices have increased by approximately 21% compared to last year, making it one of the main concerns in the food security sector.
The report states that the average access to work for people has dropped to 1.9 days per week, a figure lower than both last year and recent averages. The reduction in job opportunities continues while many families rely on daily income to meet their basic needs.
The World Food Programme further added that in recent weeks, changes in food prices have been limited; some items like cooking oil and pulses have seen a decrease, but wheat and flour prices have slightly risen. However, data shows that most staple food items are more expensive compared to last year.
The international organization emphasized that disruptions in trade routes and reliance on alternative regional pathways have increased transportation costs, impacting prices. At the same time, low incomes and stagnant wages have reduced families’ purchasing power, placing their economic situation in a fragile state.
Economic experts believe that in the absence of effective employment programs from the Taliban administration and with ongoing economic restrictions, the livelihood pressures on the country’s residents will persist.
