The market for wooden handicrafts in Kunar has grown significantly compared to previous years.

Some handicraft artisans in Kunar say these decorative items made from local wood have caught the attention of tourists visiting the province.

Baz Mohammad, a shopkeeper in Kunar, told a TOLOnews reporter: “We have fruit trays, platters, tables, clocks, spoons, and fruit baskets of all kinds. We also have platters that are both handmade and simple.”

Another shopkeeper, Sabghatullah, said, “The wood used here is better than Chinese or Pakistani products and lasts longer.”

Safiullah, another shopkeeper, said, “The demand for these products has grown. Tourists from other places prefer wooden items, taking them as souvenirs, attracted by both their type and quality.”

Handicraft makers seek support for transporting their products to other provinces.

Abdul Wahab, a craftsman, explained, “Our problem is that wood is restricted in Kunar, and the items we make cannot be transported to other provinces.”

Ismail, another artisan, added, “We need an open market for our items. There’s a shortage of wood here, demand is high, but we can’t meet it.”

Meanwhile, local officials say they plan to hold a three-day exhibition this week in Kunar to promote local products.

The head of Kunar’s Department of Industry and Commerce, Mohammad Yousuf Tayeb, stated, “This exhibition is for the growth and development of local products to promote them so that our people can see and use these items in daily life.”

According to the Department of Industry and Commerce, around 450 large and small carpentry workshops are active in Kunar, providing direct employment opportunities to hundreds of people.