Afghanistan Market Prices Show Limited Volatility Amid Underlying Pressures

During the 4th week of September in Afghanistan, market prices remained relatively stable, but underlying pressures continued to exert upward pressure on prices. The higher cost of imports and fuel prices increased transportation and supply-chain costs.

Rice, wheat flour, cooking oil, sugar, and salt prices were elevated compared to last year's levels. In contrast, weak labor availability and subdued purchasing power constrained household food access.

National average food prices experienced mixed but generally modest movements during the week, with provincial disparities persisting. Among staples, wheat grain and flour prices showed negligible weekly fluctuations, but remained 14% higher than last year's levels.