KABUL (SW) – The de-facto Ministry of Finance stated that it has increased customs tariffs on 11 imported goods similar to those produced domestically. This move aims to support local manufacturers.
The ministry’s statement specified the new tariffs: “Customs tariffs have been increased as follows: 25% on noodles and pasta, 50% on potato chips, 16% on construction paint, 6.5% on semi-processed batteries, 10% on tissue paper, 40% on non-corrugated cartons and boxes, 10% on footwear, 10% on water coolers, 16% on clay dishes, 2.5% on raw pharmaceutical materials, and 30% on beverage powders.”
Some industry professionals expressed optimism about the impact of these tariff increases on their businesses.
Homayun Mohmand, head of the “Mana” company, mentioned that this move could positively impact his business by 30%. “It could improve our business by 30%. Recently, we had to lay off 45 employees due to poor market conditions, but this change could allow us to rehire them.”
Abdul Haq, head of the “Abid Osman” construction paint company, also noted that the tariff increase would create a better market for domestic products.
However, some Kabul residents expressed concerns that local manufacturers might exploit these tariff increases by raising the prices of their products.
Tawab Haroon, a Kabul resident, said, “We have not yet achieved self-sufficiency. When tariffs are imposed, prices in the domestic market rise. Last year, for example, it was claimed that Afghanistan had achieved self-sufficiency in chicken production, leading to increased tariffs on imports, which subsequently raised chicken prices in Afghan markets. The quality of local products often does not match those from abroad.”
Abdul Rahim Bakhtani, another resident of Kabul, added, “Local companies may increase their prices to boost profits. We want relevant authorities to regulate and set prices.”
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) assured that it would monitor domestic production and sales activities. Akhundzada Abdul Salam Jawad, the ministry’s spokesperson, stated, “We will not allow anyone to exploit the support provided by MoCI and other entities for domestic production.”
It is worth noting that last year, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry also increased tariffs on nine imported items, including tomatoes, laundry detergent, live chickens, and several other goods.
