Afghanistan’s emerald miners struggle with tools but attract global buyers
Summary
Emerald miners in Afghanistan’s Panjshir valley are using basic tools to extract high-quality green stones that attract buyers from around the world. The mining sector employs over 15,000 people and has sold millions of dollars worth of emeralds, but lacks modern equipment and proper processing facilities.Key Facts
- Panjshir emeralds are known globally for their high quality and fetch higher prices than many other emeralds.
- Nearly 3,000 carats of emeralds were sold at a recent auction, and total sales this year are estimated at $6.12 million.
- Over 15,000 people work in Panjshir’s mining sector, providing vital jobs in a region with few alternatives.
- The Taliban government has made deals with investors from China, Russia, and Iran to develop gemstone mining.
- State revenues in Afghanistan increased by 22 percent year-on-year recently, partly due to mineral sales.
- Miners use simple tools like shovels, pickaxes, and hammers and face dangerous conditions like landslides and flooding.
- There is no standardized processing center to prepare stones for export, limiting the value added before sales.
- Officials want to bring in modern equipment and establish better processing facilities to improve the mining industry.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.
