Local officials in Herat have announced plans to develop an industrial township aimed at supporting small-scale industries and investors in the province.

The planned industrial area, covering 1,000 acres, will be established in the western part of Herat city.

Mohammad Yousuf Saeedi, spokesperson for the Herat governor, said: “The land survey and design work has been completed. The proposal will soon be sent to the capital for approval, and practical work on the 1,000 acres of land will begin shortly.”

The purpose of the township is to support local entrepreneurs, reduce unemployment, and boost domestic production. According to the Herat Chamber of Industries and Mines, hundreds of investors are interested in investing in small-scale industries.

Toryalai Ghowsi, deputy head of the chamber, said: “When our investors submit proposals, we can process their requests more quickly. Hundreds of investors are waiting for land.”

The Herat Chamber of Commerce and Investment also noted that expanding small industries is key to achieving national self-sufficiency.

Mohammad Yousuf Amin, executive head of the chamber, said: “This initiative is highly effective. It will reduce our reliance on imports of basic industrial goods, and our traders and investors will contribute to the growth of national trade and economy.”

According to local authorities, small industries, many run by women, have seen significant growth in recent years. These businesses mainly operate in small home-based workshops.