UNDP’s new Private Sector Mapping in Afghanistan report provides a comprehensive analysis of the country’s business landscape and environment, revealing both the current economic constraints and the significant untapped potential of the private sector.

Afghan enterprises face many challenges, including limited access to finance, energy shortages, high transport costs, and regulatory uncertainty. Yet opportunities remain strong in agriculture, manufacturing, renewable energy, ICT, and other sectors with significant potential to generate jobs and drive economic recovery.

The report is clear that recovery and economic growth will not be optimal, however, without the full economic participation of women, a focus upon job creation, a transparent and enabling regulatory environment and strong social and environmental safeguards.

The report outlines priority actions—such as expanding digital and Islamic finance, strengthening Special Economic Zones, improving trade connectivity, and revitalizing public–private dialogue—to support a more resilient and inclusive economy. It underscores that enabling businesses to grow, including those led by women, is essential for reducing aid dependency and building a more self‑reliant future for Afghanistan.