Afghanistan’s national power utility, Da Afghanistan Breshna Sherkat (DABS), has announced that Chinese investors are planning to invest in the generation of around 400 megawatts of electricity from coal in Kabul and several provinces.

According to a statement issued by DABS, the company’s Chief Executive Officer, Abdul Haq Akhundzada Hamkar, on Wednesday held talks with Luo Zhongchun, the head of the Chinese investment consortium Afghan Yuchang (AYCC), regarding investment in coal-based power generation projects.

Welcoming the representatives of the Chinese company, Hamkar assured them that all conditions are currently in place to support investment in power generation, adding that investors can confidently invest in electricity production and the construction of related infrastructure.

Luo, the head of AYCC, expressed readiness to move forward with the projects, stating that in addition to a 60-megawatt power generation project in Kabul, the consortium would also invest in a 320-megawatt project in Takhar province.

He added that work on the 60-megawatt Kabul project would be the first phase.

Hamkar also said that projects aimed at expanding domestic power generation sources would see greater progress compared to the past. He noted that work is currently advancing rapidly on several projects, which, once completed, will largely meet the country’s electricity needs and help create conditions for the growth of industry and trade.

The announcement comes as Hamkar, in separate meetings with tribal elders and national investors, reaffirmed assurances that facilities and incentives are being created to encourage investment in new power generation projects.

The Islamic Emirate has announced that, starting 20th February 2026, customs across Afghanistan will no longer process medicines imported from Pakistan.

The Ministry of Finance has been instructed to enforce the measure, according to an official directive from the Deputy of Economic Affairs.

Pakistani pharmaceutical importers have been warned to settle all pending commercial transactions within the next 19 days to avoid disruption.

Late last year, the Ministry of Finance had allowed the clearance of Pakistani medicines at Afghan customs for a limited three-month period. With 19 days remaining in that period, once it expires, traders will no longer be able to import these medicines into the country.

Afghanistan relies heavily on imported medicines to meet domestic demand, with Pakistan being one of the main suppliers.

This decision comes amid broader economic and trade policy changes by the Islamic Emirate, aimed at regulating imports and promoting local production.

Analysts however warn that the move could impact the availability of certain pharmaceutical products, making it crucial for authorities to ensure alternative sources or boost domestic manufacturing to prevent shortages.

A senior Afghan trade delegation has arrived in Bangladesh on an official visit aimed at strengthening bilateral trade and expanding economic cooperation between the two countries.

The delegation, led by Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce Ahmadullah Zahid, includes senior government officials as well as five Afghan traders representing various sectors.

According to Afghanistan’s Ministry of Industry and Commerce, discussions during the visit will focus on enhancing trade relations, facilitating exports and imports, and identifying opportunities for joint investment.

Talks are also expected to explore broader commercial cooperation and the potential signing of memoranda of understanding to support long-term trade partnerships.

Officials said the visit is intended to help Afghan traders gain access to new markets, increase export opportunities for Afghan products, and promote closer regional economic integration.

The Ministry emphasized that such high-level engagements play a key role in driving economic growth, expanding trade links, and strengthening the foundations of Afghanistan’s national economy.