A Glimpse into the Challenges Faced by Women Entrepreneurs at the Afghanistan-Iran Exhibition

Female entrepreneurs who participated in a recent joint Afghanistan-Iran exhibition had the opportunity to showcase their products and voice their concerns regarding the challenges in finding a viable market for their offerings. The event, which took place at the Kabul Intercontinental Hotel, provided a platform for approximately 30 entrepreneurs to exhibit Iranian products as well as handmade items by female entrepreneurs from Afghanistan.

Shiba Tahiri, one of the participants who traveled from Badakhshan to Kabul to showcase her products, expressed her satisfaction with the warm reception and positive response from the public. She emphasized the importance of such exhibitions in enhancing the visibility and market opportunities for products made by entrepreneurs from remote provinces.

The exhibition also shed light on the journeys of female entrepreneurs who have encountered obstacles such as a lack of access to education. A former engineering student, Hamira, shared her experience of starting a small business with her sister to sell handmade products after being denied the opportunity to continue her studies. Similar stories were echoed by other participants such as Sana, who found success in making traditional pickles after her education was cut short.

The three-day event, seen as an opportunity for Iranian vendors to enter the Afghan market, received positive feedback from Iranian merchants. Mohammad Ali Madadi, an Iranian merchant, expressed satisfaction with the market reception of Iranian products in Afghanistan. However, there were also hopes for more significant participation from trade experts, as highlighted by Iranian seller Hamid Kalal Rustaqi.

Despite increased trade between Afghanistan and Iran, the Afghan Chamber of Commerce and Investment reported a decline in Afghanistan’s exports to Iran, highlighting the existing challenges in the market for entrepreneurs.

The stories and experiences shared by the female entrepreneurs at the exhibition underscored the need for more opportunities and support in terms of market access and visibility for their products. It is evident that initiatives such as joint exhibitions are crucial in providing a platform for entrepreneurs, especially those from remote regions, to showcase their offerings and gain exposure to a wider market.

The joint Afghanistan-Iran exhibition served as a reminder of the resilience and determination of female entrepreneurs in overcoming obstacles to build successful businesses. It also highlighted the importance of creating more avenues for them to thrive in the market. As the event came to a close, it left an impression of the potential for growth and collaboration between Afghan and Iranian entrepreneurs, paving the way for a more inclusive and dynamic market landscape in the future.