Afghan Standards Authority Returns 40 Tonnes of Substandard Steel from Islam Qala

The Afghanistan Standards and Quality Authority has returned 40 tonnes of substandard angle iron to the exporting country after the shipment failed to meet Afghan national standards at the Islam Qala port. The authority said the material was assessed during quality control checks and rejected for non-compliance.

In a similar action at the same port, more than 26 tonnes of substandard bitumen sheets known as isogam were also returned to the country of origin after failing required tests. The ASQA stressed that it conducts regular, transparent and rigorous quality inspections at all Afghan ports.

The authority said there is no leniency for substandard imports, with measures aimed at protecting domestic markets and consumers. It urged traders and importers to comply with national standards in all their activities.

The ASQA reminded businesses of their religious and national responsibilities to supply only safe and high-quality goods. Such returns form part of ongoing efforts to prevent inferior products from entering Afghanistan.

The authority reaffirmed its commitment to consistent enforcement of quality controls at every border point. This ensures that imported materials used in construction and other sectors meet established benchmarks for safety and reliability.

By maintaining strict oversight, the body seeks to uphold standards across all imports and support the integrity of the Afghan market.