Farmers in Herat are expressing growing concerns over a sharp decline in the value of their grape harvests, attributing the drop to the lack of export opportunities this year. The inability to access international markets has left them with no choice but to sell their produce at significantly reduced prices.
At a recent “Grape, Fig, and Honey” exhibition in Herat, farmers voiced their frustrations, warning that the ongoing issues could lead to further financial losses and a subsequent reduction in the production of agricultural goods, particularly grapes. The exhibition, which is set to run for three days, showcased the region’s agricultural bounty, with many of the grape products coming from Obeh, a district known for its extensive grape cultivation.
Despite the event’s celebratory atmosphere, with nearly a dozen women participating and showcasing their products, the farmers’ concerns loomed large. According to local residents, this year’s grape harvest covered approximately 2,000 hectares of land. However, the lack of a robust market for their produce has many farmers struggling.
Farmers have blamed the Taliban for not providing adequate facilities to enable the export of their products, leading to significant financial strain. “We didn’t have a good market because the grapes didn’t reach global markets this year. We ask the Islamic Emirate to work on an air corridor for grape exports,” said Jalil Ahmad Habibi, a farmer.
The exhibition featured 40 stalls, displaying a variety of agricultural products, including grapes, saffron, and honey. Among the exhibitors were at least 10 women entrepreneurs, eager to sell their goods despite the challenging economic environment.
“I am very hopeful for the future, hopeful in Allah. I hope that our work will progress more and flourish,” said Ghoncha Gul, a female entrepreneur, reflecting the resilience and determination of Herat’s farming community.
This year, over 200,000 tons of grapes have been harvested in Herat, a province renowned for producing around 50 varieties of grapes. The most famous among them is the Lal Herat grape. Yet, without access to international markets, farmers have been forced to sell their grapes at low prices, threatening the sustainability of one of Afghanistan’s key agricultural sectors.
