For the first time, 250 tons of potatoes have been exported from Afghanistan's Balkh region to the joint Afghanistan-Uzbekistan market located in the city of Uzbekistan's Termez. Kari Amir Muhammad Mutaqqi, head of the Taliban’s industry and trade department in Balkh, confirmed this development, noting that efforts by Taliban officials, particularly Balkh Governor Mohammad Yousuf Wafa, helped resolve issues faced by merchants and investors.
Local traders have reported an improvement in the export process. Samad, a potato seller and exporter, stated that he ships two to three truckloads of potatoes daily to Uzbekistan through the Hayraton port. According to him, the export market for Afghan potatoes to Uzbekistan has improved this year compared to previous years, and no significant issues have been encountered during the process.
Samad explained that there are three main varieties of potatoes grown in Afghanistan: Bamyani, Andrabi, and Tola and Barfak. The Bamyan variety is particularly popular among both Afghan consumers and Uzbek buyers due to its favourable colour, taste, and lack of pests, making it the preferred choice for export.
Jamil, a potato and onion seller in Mazar-i-Sharif, echoed the positive outlook for this year’s harvest, expressing satisfaction with the sales of both crops. He mentioned that Afghan merchants primarily export potatoes to Uzbekistan and onions to Pakistan.
In terms of pricing, the following details were provided:
- Bamyan potatoes: AFN 15 per kilogram in the Obtom market, 20 Afghanis in shops.
- Andrabi potatoes: AFN 14 Afghanis per kilogram in the Obtom market, 18 Afghanis in shops.
- Yellow and white onions: AFN 14 Afghanis per kilogram in the Obtom market, 18 Afghanis in shops.
- Red onions: AFN 13 Afghanis per kilogram in the Obtom market, 15 Afghanis in shops.
The regions of Bamian, Daikundi, and Herat are Afghanistan’s largest potato-growing areas, producing between 300,000 and 400,000 tons annually. In addition to potatoes, Afghanistan also exports onions, fruits, dried fruits, saffron, and other agricultural products to Uzbekistan.
Follow Daryo's official Instagram and Twitter pages to keep current on world news.
Comments (0)