Kandahar's Grape Harvest Exceeds Expectations, Traders Seek Access to Foreign Markets

Kandahar province has witnessed a significant increase in grape production this year, with an estimated 205,000 tonnes expected to be harvested, of which 50% is expected to be converted into raisins. Traders in the region are optimistic about the quality and quantity of the crop, but are facing challenges in accessing international markets. The province's grape orchards cover more than 20,000 hectares, with many farmers seeing a bumper harvest this year.

Key Takeaways:

• The Department of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock in Kandahar estimates grape production at 205,000 tonnes this year, with 50% expected to be dried and processed into raisins.
• Traders in Kandahar are calling on the government and the Chamber of Commerce to help secure access to international markets for the dried fruit, citing lower prices due to limited export opportunities.
• Aimal Hakimi, an agriculture specialist, noted that this year's harvest is far better in terms of both quantity and quality compared to last year, when pests affected the crop and reduced its quality.
• Gran Mohammad, a raisin trader, stated that a kilogram of quality raisins currently sells for between 200 and 250 Afghanis, with prices expected to rise once harvesting is complete.
• Traders emphasize that Afghanistan is one of the world's leading producers of high-quality raisins, and that access to international markets could generate substantial revenue.
• Abdul Samad, a trader, highlighted the potential for raisin exports with excellent quality and packaging, but stressed that it is up to the government and the Chamber of Commerce to pave the way for exports.
• Abdul Baqi Bina, deputy head of the Kandahar Chamber of Commerce, attributed the delay in exports to ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan, but argued that efforts are underway to resolve these challenges or to find alternative routes.

Statistics:

• Grape production in Kandahar is estimated at 205,000 tonnes this year.
• 50% of the grape harvest is expected to be dried and processed into raisins.
• Last year's production stood at 195,000 tonnes, but pests affected the crop and reduced its quality.
• A kilogram of quality raisins currently sells for between 200 and 250 Afghanis.
• Kandahar's grape orchards cover more than 20,000 hectares.

Sources:

• Pajhwok Afghan News
• Department of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock in Kandahar