Rising Costs and Lack of Support Challenge Afghan Dairy Farmers

Dairy farmers in the western region of Afghanistan are increasingly concerned about their financial stability as they face a surge in feed costs, alongside stagnant prices for dairy products. Mohammad Qurban, a dairy farmer from Herat’s Guzara district, highlighted the growing difficulties in maintaining his business, which he has operated for over ten years. He pointed out that essential feed components like hay, oilseed cake, and wheat bran have become expensive, yet the selling price for dairy products, such as yogurt, remains low at about 60 afghanis per container.

Other farmers in the region have mirrored Qurban's concerns. Abdul Jabbar, another cattle farmer, noted a significant increase in the price of wheat bran, which has doubled from 600 to 1,200 afghanis per sack, despite the quality remaining poor. Mohammad Nasser, also a dairy producer, emphasized that the increased cost of all types of animal feed has not been offset by higher market prices for their dairy products.

The combination of rising feed and veterinary costs, weak consumer demand, and inadequate financial or technical assistance is exerting pressure on the livestock sector. Farmers are calling on the Taliban authorities and agricultural support organizations for help, warning that without it, many may be unable to sustain their operations.

Livestock farming is a critical source of income for thousands of rural Afghan families. However, the sector has been under mounting pressure due to economic instability, increased production costs, and a reduction in consumers' purchasing power, resulting in tighter profit margins for producers.