Kabul fuel prices surge as petrol rises nearly 14%

Fuel prices have risen sharply in Kabul in recent days, with the price of petrol increasing from AFN66 ($1.03) to AFN75 per litre, a rise of nearly 14%, adding to financial pressure on households, transport operators and businesses, The Khaama Press News Agency reports.

Residents said the increase had significantly raised transport costs and day-to-day living expenses. They called on the authorities to explain the reasons for the price rise and take steps to stabilise the market.

Afghanistan depends on imported petroleum, with much of its fuel arriving through neighbouring countries such as Iran and Central Asian nations. Traders have warned in recent months that disruptions to regional trade routes, higher transport costs and supply constraints have contributed to greater price volatility in the domestic fuel market.

The increase comes as Afghanistan continues to face mounting economic challenges, including falling household incomes, high unemployment and rising food prices.

International aid agencies have repeatedly warned that higher fuel prices can accelerate inflation by increasing the cost of transporting food, agricultural inputs and other essential goods across the country.

Residents also expressed concern that domestic fuel prices continued to rise despite declines in global crude oil prices, arguing that the higher costs were placing an additional burden on families already struggling with Afghanistan's prolonged economic crisis.