Khost Reaches Vegetable Self-Sufficiency After Pakistan Trade Closure

Officials from the Khost Department of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock state that vegetable cultivation in the province has increased following the closure of trade routes with Pakistan, achieving self-sufficiency and enabling exports to neighboring provinces.

Shir Mohammad Zabih, head of the department, said Khost has reached self-sufficiency in producing beans, squash, cucumbers, fresh vegetables and other crops, eliminating the need for imports. Vegetables from Khost are now transported to other provinces, he added.

Shahsawar Aajiz, head of the Khost vegetable market, noted that no shortages have occurred since the routes closed. Some vegetables, including turnips, cauliflower and carrots, are sent to neighboring provinces, he said.

Farmers in Khost, who cultivate vegetables under plastic coverings, highlight the province's suitable climate for various types. They say support with greenhouses, improved seeds, fertilizers and other inputs would allow them to supply more provinces.

Badshahuddin, a local farmer, said greenhouses and improved seeds would enable exports beyond Khost. Rawanaullah added that such support would boost production, as current plastic coverings are vulnerable to wind damage. Sardar Dawood Khan noted vegetables are sent to districts in Khost, Paktia and other provinces, but profits have declined due to increased local farming amid unemployment.

Khost, a southeastern province with a relatively warm climate, produces various vegetables even in winter, mostly under plastic with a small number in greenhouses.