Sellers in Herat on Sunday reported a significant drop in sales of women’s handicrafts, despite the enduring popularity of these products among women.
The vendors attributed the decline to increasing poverty and unemployment, which have severely impacted the handicrafts market in Herat. Many shops in the capital city appear empty of customers.
Since the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan, the country has plunged into a dire economic crisis, with over 70 percent of the population living below the poverty line.
“Our business has decreased a lot compared to the past. Previously, there were many gatherings and a lot of clothes were sold, but now it has decreased significantly in terms of both sales and rent. Our customers have gone abroad,” said Ehsanullah, a seller of handcrafted clothing.
These handmade clothes are known for their unique weaving, using special traditional methods for traditional and special events.
“Our business is just about making ends meet. Even though the shop is mine, I can’t make 2,000 or 2,500 afghanis per week. Some months, we stay in debt for the shop rent,” said Mohammad Aman, a tailor.
Afghanistan’s embroidery, one of the most popular types of handicrafts, is admired not only within the country but also abroad. However, the current economic conditions have significantly impacted this sector.
