Taliban said Monday they have launched construction of a large-scale commercial market complex in northern Kunduz province, a 6.3 billion Afghanis ($92 million) project they say will boost economic growth and private investment.
The groundbreaking ceremony for the Spin Zar commercial markets was led by Abdul Ghani Baradar, the Taliban’s deputy chief minister for economic affairs. He opened the event by offering condolences to families affected by Sunday night’s deadly earthquake in eastern Afghanistan, where hundreds were killed and thousands injured.
Baradar said the Kunduz project was being built through public-private partnerships and highlighted the importance of private sector investment alongside state-led initiatives. “Investment drives GDP growth, expands exports, develops industry and increases state revenue, which positively impacts social welfare,” he said.
According to Taliban officials, the project includes three separate facilities:
The Spin Zar International Trade Center, a 63-acre complex valued at 5.4 billion afghanis ($78.9 million) and scheduled for completion in three years.
A wholesale clothing market, costing 300 million afghanis ($4.3 million), to be built on two acres within one year.
A market for household appliances and electrical goods, costing 576 million afghanis ($8.4 million), also to be built on two acres within one year.
Baradar assured Afghan traders and investors that their concerns would be addressed and promised transparency in the construction process. He called on the companies involved to meet professional standards and complete the projects with “honesty and full transparency.”
