Emeralds Extracted Under Difficult Conditions in Panjshir Attract Global Buyers

Miners working in the rugged valleys of Afghanistan's Panjshir region extract emeralds under extremely difficult conditions and with basic hand tools. While millions of dollars worth of gemstones are sold at local and international auctions, the sector provides an important livelihood for the local population.

Emerald Auctions in Panjshir

Competition remains very high at the auctions held in the offices of the Panjshir provincial government. Local and foreign buyers check the quality of raw green stones, which they inspect with the help of flashlight beams.

Investment and Employment Source

The mining sector offers a vital economic resource in a country experiencing difficult times due to years of conflict and international sanctions. Thousands of people are currently employed in mining activities in Panjshir.

Since there are no other factories or large enterprises in the region, mining stands out as the sole source of livelihood. Officials have identified numerous new mining sites awaiting development.

Hard Labor with Primitive Tools

Miners working in dark mining tunnels with the most basic equipment such as pickaxes, shovels, and hammers experience major difficulties. The lack of modern equipment slows down work processes.

Exposed to dangers such as landslides, avalanches, floods, and rockfalls, miners struggle for survival in extremely hazardous conditions.

Standardization and Future Expectations

Officials emphasize that an international market must be established for gemstones to be processed locally and standardized before being exported. However, there are currently not enough processing facilities available.

According to World Bank data, while the increase in mineral and resource sales reflects positively on state revenues, the sector continues to need international investment and expertise support.