In a move aimed at enforcing the use of the Afghan currency (Afghani) and curbing the reliance on foreign currencies, Haibatullah Akhundzada, the Emir of the Taliban, has issued an order granting Kandahar residents a two-month window to switch to the Afghani. This directive, reported by journalist Sadiqullah Afghan, signifies the Taliban's ongoing efforts to establish financial standards and reduce the dependence on foreign currencies in Afghanistan's regions, Sputnik Afghanistan reported.
Transition Period and Currency Exchange
During the designated two-month period, currency traders in Kandahar will be responsible for facilitating the exchange of Pakistani rupees for Afghanis. This initiative aims to make the transition to the Afghan currency smoother and more accessible for the local population. Importantly, this move comes with a warning that, in the future, the use of foreign currency for transactions will be considered a criminal offense, punishable by imprisonment.
Challenges to Implementing Currency Standards
The Taliban's attempt to enforce the use of the Afghan currency reflects the challenges they face in regulating economic practices across the country. Notably, in November 2021, the Taliban had imposed a ban on the use of foreign currency throughout Afghanistan. However, these regulations have faced difficulties in effective implementation.
Regional Discrepancies in Currency Usage
One of the key challenges has been the variation in currency usage across different regions of Afghanistan. While the ban on foreign currency was proclaimed nationwide, the actual adherence to these standards has been inconsistent. In Western regions, Iranian rials have continued to be used for transactions, while in Eastern regions, Pakistani rupees have remained in circulation.
The recent directive by Haibatullah Akhundzada for Kandahar reflects an ongoing effort by the Taliban to extend and reinforce their economic regulations across different provinces. It underscores their determination to establish uniform financial standards and reduce reliance on foreign currencies.
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