Fresh fruit importers in Herat, Afghanistan, report a downturn in the market for fresh fruit sales, attributing this to increased customs duties. Compared to the previous year, the prices of imported fresh fruits have surged. Importers cite high customs duties as the primary factor for this price hike.
Faridoon, an importer, states: "Customs duties are high, and fruit prices are rising. If customs duties are reduced, the price of fresh fruits will also decrease." Another importer, Mohammad, adds: "The reason for the increase in the price of imported fruits is the rise in customs duties. The customs duties are extremely high and burdensome, and no one can afford to import fruit."
The domestic fresh fruit season has not commenced, resulting in a reliance on imports. Abdul Ahad Rahmani, head of the Herat Fruit Sellers Association, notes: "Tangerines and apples are imported from Iran. Other vegetables and fresh fruits come to Afghanistan through the UAE from various countries. Fruits come from different parts of the world, and even Herat receives fruits from Chile, USA, and European countries."
Some fruit sellers express economic strain, unable to purchase fresh fruit due to elevated costs. Bilal, a fruit seller, comments: "Last year, one kilogram of fresh tangerine cost 30 afghani, but this year the price is between 100 and 130 afghani. The economic situation of the people is such that they cannot come and buy fruit."
Farmers report losses due to low prices and a lack of exports during the domestic fruit season.
Source: Tolo News