Deputy PM for Economic Affairs: The Islamic Emirate to Allocate Land in Industrial Zones and Offer Privileges and Facilities for Returning Industrialists and Investors

The Deputy PM for Economic Affairs, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar Akhund, participated in and delivered a speech at a conference held today January 16, 2025, under the title "Call for Investment in Afghanistan." The conference was attended by several esteemed members of the Cabinet, ambassadors from foreign countries, representatives of international organizations, national businessmen, investors, and private sector representatives.

In his address, the Deputy PM stated that the Islamic Emirate has taken fundamental steps for the country’s economic growth, the creation of new job opportunities, supporting the private sector, and providing necessary facilities in the fields of trade and transit. In this regard, the Industrial Zones Law and the procedure for providing privileges and facilities to returning industrialists and businessmen have been approved based on the 3rd and 7th decrees of the esteemed Amir al-Mu’minin, Sheikh Hibatullah Akhundzada, may Allah protect him.

According to the Deputy PM, the main objective of the Industrial Zones Law is to promote Afghanistan’s economy through the regulation of industrial zones and to create conditions for attracting private investment. Additionally, according to the newly established procedure for returning industrialists and businessmen, all industrialists and traders will enjoy a range of benefits, including a five-year exemption from other taxes, besides tax exemptions on employee wages, as well as customs duty exemptions on all imported machinery and equipment. Upon their request, two-year visas will also be granted to their foreign technical workers and engineers.

The Deputy PM further emphasized that the Islamic Emirate’s goal is to encourage Afghan industrialists and investors, in or abroad, to invest in Afghanistan. With their help, the industrial sector will develop, more job opportunities will be created for the citizens, and the level of domestic production will increase.

Deputy PM Mullah Baradar Akhund, referring to the support for the private sector, mentioned that the Islamic Emirate has raised customs duties on imported goods that have domestic alternatives and can meet the needs of the people. Additionally, all Emirate institutions have been instructed to prioritize domestic products and goods in their procurement processes. Furthermore, a support fund for the private sector has also been established, yielding positive results in various sectors.

In conclusion, Deputy PM Mullah Baradar Akhund called upon Afghan industrialists and investors both inside and outside the country to transfer their industries and investments back to Afghanistan and fulfill their responsibility in the country’s development. He assured them that the Islamic Emirate will provide any necessary cooperation when required.