UNDP: Decline in Trade and Production Affects Livelihoods of Millions in Afghanistan
KABUL — The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) announced that a sharp decline in trade and production in Afghanistan since 2021 has affected the livelihoods and economy of millions of people, with the private sector now seen as the main pathway to the country's economic stability and recovery.
UNDP reported on Monday, February 16, 2026, that despite the return of modest economic growth and improvements in monetary stability, many people continue to face serious economic difficulties.
The organization emphasized that micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises play a vital role in production, job creation, and supporting family economic welfare, especially for women. These businesses provide significant capacity to strengthen Afghanistan's economy.
"Efforts to revive private sector activities, strengthen trade and investment, accelerate growth, create jobs, and increase family economic stability continue," UNDP stated.
According to the report, UNDP's work focuses on identifying barriers to business growth, improving access to markets, and enhancing economic sustainability in Afghanistan.
In a previous report, the UN stated that 75% of Afghans face insecurity in meeting their daily needs, while 88% of female-headed households are deprived of access to minimum living requirements.
More in Economy
Taliban in Talks with Belarusian Officials on Assembling Agricultural Equipment
Taliban Ministry Claims 100,000 People Engaged in Gold Mining in Badakhshan
Iran-Afghanistan Chamber Head: Efforts Underway to Balance Bilateral Trade
Construction Begins on Large Fruit Market with Cold Storage in Herat
ReliableTaliban in Talks with Belarusian Officials on Assembling Agricultural Equipment
Taliban officials discussed with Belarusian counterparts in Minsk the supply of agricultural machinery and assembly of tractors at a Kabul industrial site, according to the Russia Trade Center in Afghanistan.
ReliableTaliban Ministry Claims 100,000 People Engaged in Gold Mining in Badakhshan
Taliban Ministry of Mines claims 100,000 people are mining gold in Badakhshan, creating jobs and funding infrastructure, amid reports of protests and clashes in Takhar over environmental concerns.
ReliableIran-Afghanistan Chamber Head: Efforts Underway to Balance Bilateral Trade
Mahmoud Siyadat, head of the Iran-Afghanistan Joint Chamber of Commerce, announced efforts to balance trade through contract farming and increased Afghan agricultural exports to Iran, amid challenges from closed Pakistan routes.
ReliableConstruction Begins on Large Fruit Market with Cold Storage in Herat
Construction has started on a 65-jerib fruit market south of Herat city, featuring cold storage for over 10,000 tons to aid farmers and boost exports. Officials say it will reduce waste and support off-season supply to northern markets.