Kabul: The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) announced initiatives to bolster Afghanistan's traditional carpet-weaving industry, creating job opportunities for hundreds, including women. USAID revealed on Friday, January 10, via social media that it had funded two key facilities: a wool spinning center in Kabul and a yarn dyeing and drying center in Herat.
A high-capacity wool spinning center in Kabul, supported by USAID, now produces over 135 tons of high-quality yarn annually. This facility reduces reliance on low-quality imports, increasing company revenues from $960,000 to $1.3 million and generating 482 new jobs, the majority filled by women. USAID highlighted that this initiative also boosts carpet production from 9,000 to 13,500 square meters annually, significantly enhancing the industry’s capacity.
In Herat, USAID partnered with another carpet company to establish a facility capable of dyeing and drying 100 tons of wool yarn annually. This center lowers dependency on imports, increases annual revenues from $600,000 to $850,000, and creates numerous full-time jobs.
Afghanistan’s carpet industry, rooted in centuries-old traditions, faces significant challenges. Domestic carpet sales have sharply declined due to economic hardships. According to local carpet traders, the domestic sales have plummeted from 30% to just 5%, with 95% of carpets now being exported abroad.
The Ministry of Industry and Commerce reported that in 2024, Afghanistan exported 3,960 tons of carpets valued at over $15 million to countries including Pakistan, Germany, the U.S., and Saudi Arabia. However, trade restrictions and banking limitations have hindered growth. Afghan exporters must often send carpets to Pakistan first, where they are rebranded and sold internationally.
The Carpet weaving remains a critical source of income for Afghan families, particularly in the northern, western, and central provinces. According to industry associations, 1.2 million people work in Afghanistan's carpet industry, 80% of whom are women.
USAID’s support for the industry, through modern facilities and improved infrastructure, aims to sustain this vital sector, enhance production quality, and provide economic opportunities for many Afghan families.
