MAZAR-E SHARIF (SW) – A number of blacksmiths in Balkh province say that the metal industry has lost its former vitality and is now facing a significant downturn.
They cite the import of similar goods, the rising cost of iron, and the lack of supportive programs for artisans as the main reasons behind the decline.
Mohammad Jawid, a blacksmith, explained, “Now, the items we used to make are coming from China, Pakistan, and Tajikistan, and they are cheaper than what we produce. As a result, people no longer use our handmade tools.”
These blacksmiths expressed concern that without support, the metal industry might completely disappear in the near future.
“There is no market. In the past, tools were not imported into Afghanistan, but now all countries’ borders are open, and foreign tools are coming in. This has caused the industry to decline,” said another blacksmith Abdul Sattar.
The blacksmiths in Balkh province are urging the de-facto government of the Islamic Emirate to support the industry by increasing customs tariffs on imported foreign goods.
Nasir Ahmad Niazi, deputy director of Balkh’s Directorate of Commerce and Industry, said that supporting artisans and preserving traditional industries in the province are among their top priorities.
“We have a strong commitment to support artisans and stand by them. We are working to curb the import of similar goods or increase taxes on foreign products,” he added.
Metal industry is one of Afghanistan’s traditional industries, where blacksmiths use iron to create tools such as axes, sickles, hammers, shovels, knives, and other items.
