Afghanistan’s Islamic Emirate has inaugurated the first phase of the Shoranda cement factory in Kandahar, with Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar Akhund describing the project as part of the country's efforts to strengthen domestic production and reduce reliance on imports.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Baradar said the Islamic Emirate's strategic and economic vision was to gradually transform Afghanistan from a consumer-based economy into a productive one by meeting domestic demand through local manufacturing and expanding exports.

He stressed the importance of establishing a production system based on economic principles, strengthening domestic value chains and creating the conditions necessary for the implementation of major national development projects.

The first phase of the Shoranda cement factory has an estimated production capacity of 1,500 tons per day. Once all three planned phases are completed, the facility is expected to reach a total daily production capacity of 5,000 tons.

The project is also expected to generate significant employment opportunities, providing direct and indirect jobs for thousands of Afghans, according to the report.

The inauguration comes as the Islamic Emirate seeks to expand Afghanistan's industrial capacity, encourage domestic investment and develop local industries to reduce dependence on imported goods.

Cement production is considered particularly important for Afghanistan's construction sector and infrastructure development, as increased domestic output could help meet demand for building materials while supporting employment and economic activity.

The Shoranda factory is expected to contribute to these efforts by increasing local cement production and strengthening the country's industrial base. (ILKHA)