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2025-09-17 19:11:08
Afghan Dry Fruit Exports Meet EU Standards; Food Safety Training Opens Doors to High-End Markets. (1) A food safety standards training program, co-hosted by the agency and the EU, was successfully held in Kabul from September 15th to 16th. The training aimed to enhance the accessibility of Afghan food exports to high-end markets such as the EU. The training focused on dried fruits and nuts and attracted key stakeholders, including the Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce, the Afghan Women's Chamber of Commerce, Afghan exporters, and food safety experts. (2) The training program introduced Afghan producers to key international and European food safety standards necessary for access to high-end markets such as the EU, and emphasized the need for private sector investment in quality assurance and certification throughout the food supply chain, from farm to table. The program provided practical knowledge to help participants avoid export rejections due to common issues such as pesticide residues and allergens. (3) Data indicates that Afghanistan's total exports are expected to reach $1.8 billion in 2024, with fruit and nut exports accounting for $590 million. Although trade with the EU is currently modest, Afghanistan has significant potential to expand market access by improving food safety compliance. Veronika Boskovic Pohar, Charge d'Affaires of the EU Delegation to Afghanistan, stated that the EU is committed to helping Afghanistan develop a strong and sustainable food sector. Investing in food safety and quality will not only protect consumers but also empower Afghan producers to access new, high-value markets. Mutinta Chimuka, Deputy Country Director of the United Nations World Food Programme in Afghanistan, emphasized the WFP's unwavering commitment to strengthening Afghanistan's food sector and improving food safety standards. Building effective institutional and regulatory frameworks is crucial for ensuring food safety and aligning the private sector with international benchmarks. The EU Delegation to Afghanistan also plans to conduct training on product standards for accessing international markets in other economic sectors.
