ECONOMY — April 9, 2026

World Bank Reports 5.6 Percent Decline in Afghanistan's GDP Per Capita

The World Bank reports that Afghanistan's GDP per capita fell 5.6 percent due to population growth outpacing economic expansion and inflation amid Middle East economic shocks. It highlights rising import costs from the US-Israel-Iran war and calls for better governance and resilience.

The Ehtebar Desk — originates with Amu TV2 min read

World Bank Reports 5.6 Percent Decline in Afghanistan's GDP Per Capita
Image courtesy Amu TV

A World Bank report states that Afghanistan's GDP per capita has decreased by 5.6 percent, as population growth has outpaced economic growth and inflation has risen.

The report identifies conflicts in Iran and the Middle East as an economic shock affecting the region, including Afghanistan. Regional growth, excluding Iran, is projected to slow from 4 percent in 2025 to 1.8 percent in 2026, which is 2.4 percentage points lower than January forecasts.

Osman Diune, World Bank vice president, emphasized the need to build resilience against crises through strengthened governance, macroeconomic stability, job creation and peace as a precondition for development.

The report notes that the war between the United States, Israel and Iran has led to dramatic increases in prices of goods imported to Afghanistan via Iran, reducing citizens' purchasing power. Economic experts attribute the decline in per capita GDP to these price hikes alongside reduced income and employment opportunities.

Read the original reporting at Amu TV

Reliability assessment

Single source with direct attribution to World Bank report, specific quantifiable details (e.g., 5.6% decline, growth forecasts), and on-record quote from named official Osman Diune, Vice President.

The source language reads straight.

Across the newsrooms

Filed by

Filed under

EconomyWorld Bank, Afghanistan GDP, Iran conflict, regional economy, Osman Diune

Spotted an error or have more on this story? Tip the desk on Telegram → or WhatsApp →.

Reader supported

Keep Ehtebar running

Every published story uses paid tools to translate reporting, compare sources, extract claims, and produce a clearer read on Afghanistan. Reader support helps keep that work independent.

€5

helps cover daily verification runs

€15

supports a week of source comparison

€50

keeps independent analysis moving