A recent report by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on Afghanistan’s private sector shows that despite significant economic constraints, there are substantial untapped opportunities for growth and economic recovery.
The report, titled “Private Sector Mapping in Afghanistan,” provides a comprehensive overview of the country’s business environment, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities facing economic actors.
According to the report, Afghan enterprises face obstacles such as limited access to finance, energy shortages, high transportation costs, and regulatory uncertainty. Nevertheless, sectors including agriculture, manufacturing, renewable energy, information and communications technology (ICT), and others still hold strong potential for job creation and economic revitalization.
The report emphasizes that sustainable recovery and growth cannot be achieved without full economic participation of women, a focus on job creation, transparent and enabling regulatory frameworks, and strong social and environmental safeguards.
Priority actions outlined in the report include expanding digital and Islamic finance, strengthening special economic zones, improving trade connectivity, and revitalizing effective public–private dialogue. UNDP stresses that supporting business growth—especially women-led enterprises—is crucial for reducing reliance on foreign aid and moving Afghanistan toward a more self-reliant economy.
