In northern Faryab province, farmers have reported a rise in grape production this season. Despite the increased yield, there has been a notable decrease in grape prices, with a reduction of over 50 percent from the previous year. This drop in prices has rendered the earnings from grape sales insufficient to cover the farmers' expenses. The Department of Agriculture in Faryab attributes this price decline to a combination of factors including a surge in production, a lack of market opportunities, and inadequate cold storage facilities.
Haji Estanqal, a local farmer, mentioned that the yield this year has significantly exceeded that of last year, yet the market prices for grapes have plummeted due to limited buyers and insufficient storage options. Last year, grapes were sold for 300 to 350 afghanis per seven kilograms, whereas this season prices have dropped to 100 to 150 afghanis. Estanqal called on the interim government to facilitate market access for their produce and to construct cold storage facilities in each district to help preserve the crops.
Other farmers echoed Estanqal's concerns, highlighting the financial difficulties caused by the low prices and lack of market access. The agriculture department confirmed the farmers' grievances, linking the drop in grape prices to the increased harvest, market scarcity, and the economic challenges faced by consumers. Despite these challenges, Faryab has seen more than a 50 percent increase in grape yield this year, with the province's vineyards estimated to produce over 330,000 tonnes of grapes and approximately 100,000 tonnes of raisins.
To support farmers, around 400 raisin houses have been constructed in key districts, with an additional 15 under construction. A small cold storage facility has also been established on an experimental basis, with efforts underway to equip a larger facility in Maimana. The Ministry of Agriculture has been engaged to address these issues, aiming to alleviate the challenges faced by grape farmers in Faryab.
Meanwhile, some residents have expressed contentment with the reduced grape prices, noting the increased affordability of the fruit for lower-income families compared to last year.
Source: PAJHWOK Afghan News