(Part 11) Summary of the Most Significant Accomplishments of the Islamic Emirate (2022 – 2023) By: H.N Economic Development Afghanistan is a country that has endured prolonged effects of conflict and invasion over many years, resulting in significant economic challenges alongside military and political setbacks during the past four decades. Since the re-establishment of the […]
(Part 11) Summary of the Most Significant Accomplishments of the Islamic Emirate (2022 – 2023)
By: H.N
Economic Development
Afghanistan is a country that has endured prolonged effects of conflict and invasion over many years, resulting in significant economic challenges alongside military and political setbacks during the past four decades. Since the re-establishment of the Islamic Emirate, Afghan authorities have placed particular emphasis on advancing Afghanistan’s economic development. Leveraging available opportunities and resources, the current administration has diligently pursued economic growth objectives.
The Islamic Emirate, since its inception, has focused on regulating and harmonizing economic activities, achieving developmental milestones, fostering job creation, enhancing public welfare, fostering sustainable economic expansion, and progressively alleviating poverty. These efforts have yielded tangible outcomes:
1. An integral aspect of economic development pertains to the establishment and coordination of non-governmental entities. Over the past year, 376 non-governmental organizations—comprising 355 domestic and 21 international entities—have undergone formal registration.
2. During this period, these organizations have initiated 3,573 projects valued at a cumulative total of USD 1.647 billion. Of these projects, 2,233 have reached completion and operational status in sectors such as healthcare, education, agriculture, irrigation, social welfare, infrastructure, and disaster risk mitigation. Concurrently, 1,340 projects remain in progress, reflecting ongoing commitment to economic advancement initiatives.
Funding the National Budget through Domestic Revenue Streams
Despite the prevailing constraints and challenges within the economic landscape, the Ministry of Finance of the Islamic Emirate has adeptly leveraged administrative reforms, institutional structuring, resolute anti-corruption endeavors, and the facilitation of conducive environments for investors and traders to transparently aggregate domestic revenues. Over the past two years, this transparent revenue collection has facilitated the meticulous allocation and disbursement of the annual budget. During this timeframe, the national budget has been meticulously structured around internal revenue streams, thereby facilitating government expenditures for routine operational needs and strategic developmental initiatives. It is noteworthy that a considerable allocation has been earmarked within the fiscal solar year 1402 budget to synchronize numerous significant developmental projects. The synchronization of these projects plays a pivotal role in bolstering the country’s economic advancement and fostering socio-economic growth within households.
Facilitating Customs Operations
Customs administration plays a pivotal role in both national revenue generation and the facilitation of trade expansion within the country. Recognizing this critical function, the Islamic Emirate has dedicated heightened attention to this sector, implementing strategic facilitations within the country’s customs infrastructure:
1. Extending operational hours at customs facilities from 16 to 24 hours.
2. Implementing essential reforms in pricing structures and tariff policies. 3. Standardizing all customs procedures and deploying electronic weighing systems to enhance transparency and operational efficiency. 4. Instituting amnesty measures for past customs infractions for the benefit of traders. 5. Extending the duration and flexibility of both domestic and international transit procedures. 6. Streamlining customs documentation by eliminating transfer forms for perishable goods, thereby simplifying processes for traders. 7. Adjusting tariffs on food commodities at customs to align with the economic realities faced by citizens. 8. Providing requisite customs facilitations to streamline the registration and clearance processes for keyless and document-free motor vehicle products.
These strategic reforms and facilitations have yielded significant improvements in export-import dynamics and transit volumes through customs channels, marking a notable achievement for the Islamic Emirate. Furthermore, international entities of repute have positively evaluated the Islamic Emirate’s progress and efficiency enhancements in customs operations.
Support the Private Sector
One of the paramount considerations for economic development lies in fostering the involvement of the private sector in investment activities. Adhering to this principle, the Islamic Emirate has actively extended crucial financial facilitations to bolster the growth, development, and service delivery within the private sector. The key financial aids and exemptions implemented for the private sector in the past year are outlined as follows:
1. A 2% exemption from turnover taxes to encourage industrial expansion and progress within the country. 2. A 7% waiver on contractual taxes for sectors encompassing agriculture, industry, and commerce, aimed at stimulating growth and providing support to these vital industries. 3. Cancellation of the 4% quarterly turnover tax for private universities and schools for a duration of one year. 4. Provision of financial facilities tailored for online service providers. 5. Mandatory provision of essential facilities at national ports by all government entities, facilitating smoother operations for traders and industrial stakeholders. Moreover, in a bid to fortify the private sector and considering prevailing economic circumstances, the Islamic Emirate has instituted various tax penalty waivers. These initiatives stand as tangible milestones towards nurturing the private sector’s growth trajectory within the country.
Additionally, the formalization and categorization of professions hold significant importance. Over the past year, approximately half a million professions have been meticulously registered and categorized across central and provincial levels, marking a notable 24% increase from previous records. This initiative underscores a pivotal stride in organizing and empowering the private sector. Continued…
Reference:
Book “IEA’s Accomplishments” – D.D of Public and Strategic Affairs
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