Agriculture and livestock farming are central to the livelihoods of a large share of Afghanistan's population. Agricultural development therefore affects rural earnings, food availability and the prices of products delivered to cities.
In 2026, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) warned that rising fertiliser prices could create difficulties for Afghanistan's next wheat harvest. The agency also highlighted climate resilience, improved agricultural services and efforts to connect farmers with markets.
Water shortages, unpredictable weather and expensive seeds and fertiliser can directly affect a farmer's profits. Even when yields increase, the cost of storage, transport and marketing can limit the income farmers actually receive.
Irrigation facilities, training in suitable crops and timely information about weather risks may help agricultural systems withstand shocks. Yet no single project can immediately resolve food security challenges across the country.
To understand Afghanistan's agricultural development, it is necessary to look not only at production volumes but also at farmers' actual costs and households' access to food.