The Deputy PM for Economic Affairs, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar Akhund, inaugurated the second Specialized National and International Exhibition of Abu Ali Sina Balkhi

The Deputy PM for Economic Affairs of the Islamic Emirate, Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar Akhund, officially opened the second Specialized National and International Exhibition of Abu Ali Sina Balkhi today, Tuesday, May 19, 2026.

Speaking at the ceremony held for this occasion, Deputy PM Mullah Baradar Akhund expressed satisfaction that necessary measures have been taken to strengthen Afghanistan’s pharmaceutical sector, and that currently the needs of the people are largely being met through domestic production. He added that the most effective way to resist external pressure and economic sanctions is to strengthen and support domestic production. Deputy PM Mullah Baradar Akhund stated that recent reductions in pharmaceutical imports have led to significant growth in Afghanistan’s pharmaceutical sector in a short period, and that people are now using domestic medicines instead of foreign ones. He further added that, considering the country’s needs, these achievements are not sufficient, and pharmaceutical manufacturing factories need to become more standardized and expand their production in accordance with approved standards.

He described the organization of this exhibition as important for strengthening the pharmaceutical sector and called on all health sector officials and citizens to trust and use domestic medicines. He also strongly urged traders and pharmaceutical sellers not to sell medicines at high prices and to avoid hoarding. In this regard, he firmly called on relevant government institutions and officials to strictly prevent such practices.

Deputy PM Mullah Baradar Akhund called on all investors to invest in Afghanistan. He assured that the Islamic Emirate stands beside them, work is underway to streamline investment processes, and an electronic system will be gradually introduced.

Deputy PM Mullah Baradar Akhund also stated that the Islamic Emirate is not only focused on the domestic economy but also seeks strong relations with countries in terms of regional and international economic connectivity. According to him, economic interactions with regional and neighboring countries have currently increased.

At the second Specialized National and International Exhibition of Abu Ali Sina Balkhi, dozens of pharmaceutical manufacturing companies showcased their products, and the exhibition will continue for four days. Currently, 134 pharmaceutical manufacturing factories are operating across the country, producing 1,170 types of medicines. These factories have attracted $450 million in investment and meet 38% of the country’s demand. Eight months ago, this figure was 25%, showing significant progress in domestic production following the reduction of foreign medicine imports