A Narrative Analysis of Opportunities and Challenges in the Grape Value Chain in Afghanistan: From Production to Export

Abstract (in English)

The grape value chain in Afghanistan plays a significant role in the country’s agricultural economy and has the potential to serve as a sustainable source for increasing farmers’ income and enhancing exports. This study employs a narrative review approach aimed at identifying the opportunities and challenges within the grape value chain in Afghanistan, based on findings from both national and international studies. Scientific studies searched through databases such as Google Scholar, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect. Categorized into four main components: production, marketing, processing, and export. Findings indicate that despite Afghanistan’s high potential for grape production, challenges such as the lack of standard infrastructure, weak marketing systems, dependency on intermediaries, and insufficient processing facilities have reduced the product’s added value. Meanwhile, experiences from successful countries like Pakistan, Egypt, and Lebanon demonstrate that targeted policy interventions, investment in the supply chain, and farmer empowerment can mitigate these challenges. The study concludes that comprehensive development of the grape value chain requires strengthening infrastructure, improving market institutions, and formulating supportive policies to enable Afghanistan to capitalize on its comparative advantage in this sector.