MAZAR-E-SHARIF, Afghanistan — Steel factory owners in Balkh province voiced frustration over the lack of support from the Taliban, citing difficulties in accessing raw materials as their primary challenge.
One factory owner revealed that his company, which has the capacity to produce 30 to 40 tons of steel daily, is currently limited to producing only six to seven tons due to these shortages.
“If we receive support and raw materials, we can increase our production to 30 to 40 tons daily,” said Haji Azizullah, the owner of a rebar factory. He added that with adequate support, the factory could also export steel abroad.
Workers interviewed by Amu stressed that increased domestic investment would reduce youth migration by creating job opportunities. “I ask the government and investors to build more domestic factories so that poor people can get jobs,” said Nikmal, a factory worker.
“I request that other companies be established as well. There are other people like me who need work,” said Shafi, another worker at the rebar factory.
Despite the Taliban’s claims of supporting the country’s investors and private sector, factory owners have repeatedly cited high taxes, tariffs, and lack of access to essential facilities like electricity as ongoing obstacles. These issues, they say, remain unaddressed by the Taliban administration.
