After the fall of the Republic, the price of consumable goods in the domestic market has increased unprecedentedly. Food prices have now doubled. The slightest increase in the price of flour, oil, rice, sugar, tea, and other materials affects people. The price of consumable goods may be much higher in rural areas. This is because the supply of these items in remote provinces is always costly for traders and shopkeepers.
On the other hand, fuel prices also increase with each passing day. A kilo of liquefied natural gas sells for about 80 afghanis in the capital. The price of oil and diesel has also doubled compared to the past. The people’s economy is not stable right now. Due to the cold weather and the closure of roads, the price of these materials may reach a level that other people cannot even think of buying.
Among the citizens, some now work in low-wage government departments. These people do not receive a monthly salary, and if they do, it is not at a level that meets their basic needs. In addition, many are unemployed and use their savings to buy the materials they need. Due to a lack of income, their savings may run out soon. Most important is the situation of citizens who can no longer afford to buy. Thus, the high market prices over time have posed a challenge to all people.
Evidence indicates that the Taliban extort money from businessmen. Currently, a large portion of Taliban members’ food is provided by businessmen, and this may lead the Taliban to relinquish control over market prices. It was previously claimed that Taliban fighters bought food from oil tanks and wholesalers in Badakhshan but did not pay for it. In return, shopkeepers are told to increase prices for goods and raw materials. Such exploits will undoubtedly lead to an increase in rates.
The situation in Afghanistan is complicated now and will become more catastrophic over time. The World Food Program (WFP) report found that half of the country’s population will face acute food insecurity since November. It is estimated that more than three million children will die if the current situation continues. Given the Taliban’s lack of planning to solve economic problems, the Afghan people may go through the most difficult days of our time.
Unfortunately, the Taliban have not yet given any explanation as to why drug prices are rising. The Taliban and many traders may see fluctuations in foreign exchange rates as the main reason for inflation, but this argument is justified. The dollar rose to 90 afghanis before the fall of Kabul, but raw materials were not so expensive.
Raw material prices are bound to rise as the Taliban close borders and prices are not controlled. Not to mention that it is unclear how Afghanistan’s economy will be managed. In fact, it is Afghanistan’s economic system that determines the basis and framework of trade in the markets according to the conditions. As such, the Taliban have not yet taken the first step in controlling market prices.
The Taliban must feel responsible for the economic challenges. People do not even ask the Taliban for a reason, but expect the challenges to be resolved. People don’t have to understand why the market price is rising. They are just interested in lowering food prices. The Taliban have previously vowed to set rates commensurate with the people’s ability, and this must be done before a catastrophe takes place.
Winter is coming and people now need fuel to heat their homes. The Taliban need to be held accountable. They must meet the needs of the people and be responsible for the problems that take place in Afghanistan. Borders must be reopened to facilitate food and fuel imports. This requires interaction with the world. The situation calls for the Taliban to enter into talks with neighboring countries to reduce food prices to prevent an imminent crisis. Any negligence in this regard is catastrophic and has dire consequences.