Taliban on Sunday launched construction of the third phase of the Ghori Cement Factory in northern Baghlan province.
The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by Taliban deputy chief minister for economic affairs Abdul Ghani Baradar.
The original Ghori Cement Plant, located in Pul-e-Khumri, dates back to the 1950s and has long played a central role in supplying cement for construction across the country. Over the years, plans to expand capacity were envisioned by previous governments but often stalled due to conflict, lack of funding and other matters.
With the launch of this third phase, Taliban officials say they aim to modernize and expand that legacy. Once completed, the facility is expected to increase total output at Ghori to 5,000 metric tons per day.
The project, backed by an investment of $86.8 million, is being managed by the Taliban-run National Development Company. Taliban say construction is expected to be completed within 18 months.
Speaking at the event, Baradar said the expansion marked a “significant step” toward Afghanistan’s self-sufficiency in cement production and broader industrial development.
“Industrial development is key to national growth. Countries with domestic manufacturing not only meet their own needs but also generate revenue through exports,” Baradar said. He added that such projects could help reduce foreign exchange outflows and stabilize the local economy.
Taliban leaders say the expansion will support national reconstruction efforts, ease cement prices and create jobs for hundreds of Afghans.
“With this factory, a large portion of our cement demand will be met locally,” Baradar said. “It will ease construction efforts, help regulate prices and provide livelihoods.”
Baradar said the Taliban’s goal of reducing reliance on imports, which he said had long strained Afghanistan’s economy.
