Afghanistan's Strategic Mining Overhaul: Boosting Economy and Curbing Illegal Extraction

Afghanistan's Ministry of Mines and Petroleum unveils programs to regulate mining operations and prevent illegal activities. The initiatives aim to foster job creation, encourage investment, and enhance industry, steering the nation towards economic independence. Companies meeting technical and financial criteria secure mining contracts, fostering domestic resource processing.

The Afghan Ministry of Mines and Petroleum has launched initiatives to regulate the country's vast mineral resources, with a focus on preventing illegal extraction and ensuring standardized operations, according to TOLO News.

Spokesperson Homayoun Afghan stated that these measures are designed to generate employment, attract investment, and propel Afghanistan's industry, as part of broader efforts towards achieving economic self-sufficiency. Afghan underscored a zero-tolerance policy against illegal mining and smuggling, emphasizing that all operations must adhere to legal standards.

The ministry is advancing the bidding process for mining contracts by prioritizing companies with verified technical expertise, ample financial resources, and strong commitments. Economic expert Shams Rahman Ahmadzai highlighted the importance of foreign investors contributing to in-country processing sectors to enhance job creation for Afghan youth, as reported by TOLO News.

(With inputs from agencies.)