Prices of food, medicines and vegetables have risen sharply across parts of Afghanistan as key trade routes with neighbouring Pakistan remain closed, residents and traders said, adding to economic pressure on households during the winter season.
Residents in eastern Nangarhar province, which relies heavily on imports through the Torkham border crossing, said the closures have reduced supplies and driven up prices, eroding purchasing power.
“The closure of the Torkham route has created serious problems for us,” said Bilal, a resident of Nangarhar. “The prices of tomatoes and potatoes have gone up, and almost everything is more expensive.”
Shopkeepers said restrictions on cross-border trade have disrupted supply chains, forcing traders to rely on informal routes.
“With Torkham closed and restrictions in place, prices have increased,” said Amrullah, a vegetable seller. “Some produce comes through smuggling routes and arrives partially spoiled. That hurts traders and makes goods more expensive for customers.”
According to the Taliban-run National Statistics and Information Authority, overall food prices have risen by about 4% recently. The data shows cooking oil prices have increased by more than 13%, healthcare costs by over 17%, and vegetable prices by nearly 29%.
The price increases come as many Afghan families struggle with unemployment, delayed salaries and reduced humanitarian aid.
Afghanistan imported a significant share of its food and consumer goods from Pakistan, making prolonged border closures a key driver of inflation, particularly in eastern and southern provinces.
