Public exhibition centre built in Balkh, traders thrilled

MAZAR-I-SHARIF (Pajhwok): A public permanent exhibition centre named “Hilo Karki” has been constructed at a cost of two million afghanis in Mazar-i-Sharif, the capital of northern Balkh province, an official said Thursday.

Lal Mohammad, head of this centre, said the newly constructed structure has 65 booths and 18 rooms.

He said the project consumed two million afghanis and took three months to complete.

He added the centre was built to encourage industrialists and find market for domestic products.

Meanwhile, Chamber of Commerce and Investment Director Imamuddin said Afghanistan was currently self-sufficient in 62 types of products.

He said the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan (IEA) supported those working for the country’s reconstruction.

On the other hand, some businesspeople in Balkh welcomed the establishment of the permanent exhibition centre and said the government should create facilities for the growth of industries.

Hashim Ishan, a businessperson, said although Afghanistan had come close to self-sufficiency in the industry sector, necessary measures should be taken to find market for domestic products.

According to him: “We are pleased with the construction of the exhibition cnetre. We want the caretaker government to resolve problems in issuing visas for us.”

Zainullah Usmani, another trader, said: "We have the best fruits, grains and vegetables in the country, but unfortunately we do not have a permanent and official centre to introduce them at domestic level."

Earlier, businessmen in the province would organize exhibitions at private halls.

kk/ma