Wheat Imports to Afghanistan Surge 4.5-Fold Following Tariff Changes

Afghanistan's wheat imports have risen sharply in the first two months of the 1405 fiscal year. The Ministry of Finance reported that imports reached 198,000 tonnes in March and April 2026. This represents a 4.5-fold increase from the 44,000 tonnes imported during the same period a year earlier.

The rise follows tariff adjustments implemented last year. The Tariff Committee led by the Ministry of Finance reduced customs duties on imported wheat. Tariffs on flour imports were increased from 5 percent to 8 percent.

These measures have expanded operations at flour-processing factories across the country. Domestic flour production capacity has grown significantly as a result. This growth has led to the creation of additional jobs in the sector. Furthermore, the market share of locally produced goods has increased.

The Ministry of Finance highlighted that the changes have boosted domestic flour production and factory operations. The primary aim of the policies is to support domestic production and bolster the national economy.