The Afghan government has made substantial investments in the country’s cement sector, with over US$600 million committed since the Taliban administration assumed power in 2021. According to the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs, this investment has been crucial in boosting local cement production, which currently stands at a reported capacity of 5 million tonnes per year.
A highlight of the recent investments includes a US$1 million renovation project at the Jabal Saraj cement plant, located in Parwan province. This project, part of ongoing efforts to upgrade the country’s industrial infrastructure, is expected to significantly enhance production capabilities. Furthermore, future investment initiatives are also planned for several key cement plants, including the Jabal Saraj facility, as well as the Temtaq cement plant in Jowzjan province and the Herat cement factory in Herat province. These investments are seen as part of a broader strategy to improve Afghanistan’s domestic cement production, reduce reliance on imports, and support construction and infrastructure development in the country.
The government aims to increase the production capacity of its cement plants to meet local demand and promote economic growth. In the context of Afghanistan’s ongoing recovery and development, the cement sector is being positioned as a critical industry, not only for its potential to generate employment but also for its role in supporting the country’s construction sector, which is vital for infrastructure rebuilding and economic stability.