Kabul- June 19, 2025: Afghanistan has signed a new agreement with China to construct cold storages in key regions. According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock (MoAIL), three cold storage units will be built—two in Kabul and one in Balkh.
The announcement came after a meeting between Deputy Minister Maulvi Sadr Azam Usmani and Ma Chang Wang, Economic and Trade Counsellor at the Chinese Embassy. Shu Changzhi, the Embassy’s Economic Secretary, also attended the discussion.
During the meeting, Usmani stressed the importance of expanding cold storage capacity across Afghanistan. He pointed out that poor preservation facilities often lead to post-harvest losses. Therefore, building such infrastructure is vital for improving food security and boosting farmers’ incomes.
The Chinese officials reaffirmed their commitment to helping Afghanistan strengthen its agricultural sector. They agreed to construct modern, standard cold storage units that will help preserve fruits and vegetables for longer periods.
Economic and Export Benefits Expected
This initiative is expected to bring multiple economic benefits. With better storage, Afghanistan can reduce waste, increase market access, and improve food quality. As a result, both domestic food supply and international exports will likely grow.
Moreover, the project reflects growing agricultural cooperation between Kabul and Beijing. China has already shown interest in Afghanistan’s natural resources and trade corridors. Now, it is extending support to agriculture, a sector that employs a majority of Afghans.
The MoAIL stated that these cold storages would be developed in direct coordination with Chinese technical teams. The goal is to minimize spoilage, increase shelf life, and help Afghan products reach international markets in better condition.
Furthermore, the ministry highlighted that this agreement could serve as a model for future collaboration. It encouraged continued Chinese involvement in broader agricultural and livestock development projects across the country.
Conclusion: Cold Storage, Empowering Farmers
The new partnership between Afghanistan and China marks a significant step toward solving the country’s post-harvest crisis. By investing in cold storages, both nations aim to protect agricultural output and improve rural livelihoods.
If successfully implemented, the project could boost exports, raise farmer incomes, and strengthen food supply chains. For Afghanistan’s economy and its farmers, cold storages may soon become the backbone of agricultural progress.
