.
In a significant move toward industrial self-sufficiency, the Ministry of Mines and Petroleum has announced the signing of five major contracts for cement extraction and production with both domestic and international companies. The combined value of the agreements stands at approximately 768 million Afghanis.
The contracts involve Turkish, Qatari, Chinese, and several Afghan companies, marking a strong vote of confidence in Afghanistan’s natural resource potential and future industrial development.
“These five projects cover cement production in key provinces—Jabal al-Saraj, Kandahar, Herat, Jawzjan, and Logar,” said Homayoun Afghan, spokesperson for the ministry. “This investment signals growing interest in Afghanistan’s mining and manufacturing sectors.”
The government aims to reduce the country’s dependence on cement imports, which have historically come from neighboring countries such as Iran, Pakistan, and Tajikistan. While Pakistani cement continues to dominate local markets, these new projects are seen as a step toward changing that dynamic.
Experts agree the development is vital for long-term economic stability.
“If we can meet domestic demand with local production, it will significantly reduce the financial burden of imports,” said Ahmad Firdaws Behgozin, an economic analyst. “Moreover, producing our own raw materials contributes directly to national economic growth.”
Qutbuddin Yaqubi, another economic expert, echoed this sentiment. “Investment in the cement industry doesn’t just meet market needs—it creates factories, stimulates local economies, and generates employment opportunities.”
The cement sector is particularly important for Afghanistan as construction and infrastructure projects expand across the country. Boosting local production can play a crucial role in supporting development while promoting economic independence.
For more economic and investment news in Afghanistan, visit www.u.af daily.
