Farmers in western Afghanistan are contending with insufficient cold storage facilities, compelling them to sell produce at minimal prices during harvest periods. This situation affects livelihoods and leads to increased food waste.
In Farah Province, Neda Mohammad, who manages an orchard, is forced to sell fruit within a limited timeframe as preservation is impossible. "When harvest season comes, there's too much fruit in the market and not enough demand," she said, noting that last year her produce couldn't fetch more than five Afghanis per kilo, resulting in disposal.
The absence of refrigerated storage leaves Mohammad with no alternative but to sell substantial quantities at prices unsustainable for her operations. Farmers in neighboring Herat Province share similar challenges. Many, having invested significantly in tomato production, encounter steep price declines upon market entry.
Mohammad Ismail, from Herat, says, "The price for one kilo of tomatoes is about 35 rupees now, but when tomatoes from Herat hit the market, we'll have to sell them for five Afghanis." The rising costs of fertilizers and pesticides, coupled with currency fluctuations, exacerbate the pressure.
Other regional farmers voice similar concerns, often finding that crop revenues do not cover input expenses. Daoud, also in Farah, remarked, "When our fruit is ready, we take it to market and sell it for five or six Afghanis per kilo. That doesn't even cover our costs."
Farmers seek modern cold storage solutions and consistent export pathways to enhance economic outcomes. Economic analysts highlight that supporting farmers could also benefit the broader economy, create jobs, and stabilize rural incomes.
Although Afghanistan possesses substantial agricultural capacity, critical infrastructure remains inadequate, rendering farmers susceptible to market volatility and environmental impacts.
Source: AMU