The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), with support from the European Union (EU), organized a two-day workshop on food safety standards in Kabul from 15 to 16 September. The training focused on dried fruits and nuts, bringing together representatives from the Afghan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Afghan Women’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry, exporters, and food safety experts.
The workshop aimed to familiarize Afghan producers with international and European food safety standards, which are crucial for accessing premium markets such as the EU. It highlighted the importance of private sector investments in quality assurance and certification throughout the food supply chain. Participants also gained practical knowledge to help reduce export rejections, particularly in areas such as pesticide residues and allergens.
Afghanistan’s exports stood at US$1.8 billion in 2024, with fruits and nuts contributing US$590 million. While trade with the EU remains modest, there is significant potential to expand access to international markets through stronger food safety compliance.
Veronika Boskovic Pohar, Chargée d’Affaires of the EU Delegation to Afghanistan, emphasized that the EU is committed to supporting Afghanistan in building a sustainable food sector. She underlined that investing in food safety and quality not only protects consumers but also opens up new, high-value markets for Afghan producers. The workshop, she noted, is an important step toward strengthening the country’s economic resilience.
WFP Deputy Country Director in Afghanistan, Mutinta Chimuka, reaffirmed WFP’s commitment to advancing food safety standards and supporting the Afghan food industry. She stressed the need for effective institutional and regulatory frameworks that allow the private sector to align with global benchmarks. Chimuka also expressed gratitude to the EU for its continuous support to the Afghan people.
Looking ahead, the EU Delegation announced plans to expand training initiatives to cover product standards in other sectors, further enhancing Afghanistan’s capacity to access international markets.
