More than a month has passed since the beginning of the solar year 1404, yet the budget for this year has not been approved.

The Ministry of Finance, without specifying the reasons for the delay, stated that the budget is in its final stages and will be approved soon.

Meanwhile, experts emphasize that any delay in approving the budget could slow Afghanistan's economic growth and delay the implementation of infrastructure projects.

Sayed Masood, an economic affairs expert, said: "Whether from a legal standpoint or the problems it will later create, or in terms of the confusion it currently causes in government expenditures and processes, the lack of an approved budget creates significant challenges for the government itself, the people, and the projects."

Mir Shakir Yaqubi, another economic expert, said: "There must be a professional and specialized approach to Afghanistan's budget. Efforts should be made to reduce operational expenses and increase developmental and infrastructure spending. A dedicated and significant portion of the budget should be allocated to development, aligned with economic needs, to contribute to poverty management, unemployment reduction, and overall economic improvement."

At the same time, the Ministry of Economy stated that the Islamic Emirate aims to invest this year in projects that directly boost domestic production and economic stability in Afghanistan.

Abdul Rahman Habib, spokesperson for the Ministry of Economy, called on domestic investors to cooperate with the Islamic Emirate in advancing the country's economy.

He said: "Greater focus will be placed on investing in projects and programs that directly impact GDP growth, create job opportunities, and contribute to economic stability and development."

The delay in approving the 1404 fiscal year budget comes as Zabihullah Mujahid, spokesperson for the Islamic Emirate, announced on the 3rd of Sawr (solar calendar) that government job positions would be reduced, describing it as a natural process.

According to TOLOnews findings, the Ministry of Education alone has seen a reduction of 90,000 positions this year.