The business community said that restrictions on the banking system in Afghanistan have challenged investors, leaving them with many problems in their businesses.

According to the Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Investment (ACCI), withdrawals for investors have been restricted to the purchase of food and basic materials required for running their businesses.

Withdrawals for decoration of offices, clothes, and other relevant materials are not processed, said ACCI officials.

“Transactions are processed with a delay. It is hard because the Central Bank is under sanctions,” said Khanjan Alokozai, a member of ACCI. 

Analysts said that issues in transactions have caused a surge in commodities prices in local markets. 

“The price of commodities has surged in the market. Previously, when business people or the private sector were transferring money through banks, the cost was $200 per $100,000 transaction. But after the restrictions on the banks, the amount has increased to $4,000 for the transfer of each $100000,” said Abdul Naseer Rishtia, an economic affairs analyst. 

“The international Swift system has been suspended and it has caused financial problems,” said Siyar Qureshi, an economic affair analyst. 

A number of Kabul residents shared similar concerns, saying they are facing issues with withdrawals.

“The people are facing many problems. Every time when they go to the banks, they wait for a long time to withdraw their money,” said a Kabul resident.

Meanwhile, the Central Bank said people’s deposits have increased in 2022. 

“The banking condition is improving as days pass. Recent statistics show that deposits by clients and also banks' assets have increased,” said Hasibullah Noori, a Central Bank spokesman.

The ACCI said that investors are using the country’s classic system of Hawala to transfer their money to purchase extra materials abroad.