Internet Shutdown Triggers Food Price Spike Across Afghanistan

Internet Shutdown Triggers Food Price Spike Across Afghanistan
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Food prices in Afghanistan surged sharply during the Taliban’s recent 48-hour nationwide internet shutdown, according to residents and traders, Amu news agency reported. In Kabul, the cost of basic goods climbed within hours. A sack of flour increased by around 100 afghanis ($1.50), while rice rose by 150 afghanis ($2.20) and cooking oil by 50 afghanis ($0.70). Fuel prices also edged higher, with gasoline reaching 75 afghanis ($1.10) per liter and cooking gas up by 10 afghanis ($0.15) per kilo. Money changers said the U.S. dollar was trading at roughly 70 to 71 afghanis.

The impact was more severe in Helmand province, where residents reported steep jumps. A sack of flour that previously sold for 900 afghanis ($13.30) rose to 1,600 afghanis ($23.60). The price of rice went up by 350 afghanis ($5.20), while a five-liter container of cooking oil increased from 470 afghanis ($6.90) to 570 afghanis ($8.40). Gasoline rose by 23 afghanis ($0.35) per liter, and cooking gas climbed by 15 afghanis ($0.22) per kilo.

The blackout fueled market disruption, bank closures, and widespread speculation, with some residents describing it as a “loss of the people’s soul.” Prices stabilized after services resumed, though analysts warn future shutdowns could again rattle the fragile economy.