Given growing restrictions on women’s access to income and work opportunities, women-owned businesses in Afghanistan have become a major source of income for them, their families, and other women. With women’s employment at just 7% (in 2024) and increasing restrictions on mobility and access to jobs, these businesses have become one of the few viable alternatives for income and jobs, especially for women-led households. Eighty percent of women-led enterprises rely on their business revenues as their primary source of income. 

This briefing, based on a survey of 610 micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, provides an update on how growing restrictions, particularly following the promulgation of the PVPV Law in August 2024, are affecting them. It also outlines their current needs and identifies key areas where international partners can make a meaningful impact. This document provides insights on opportunities to support these businesses and the women behind them.