The Eid Bazaar in Herat was opened by the Union of Exporting Traders of Domestic Products with the aim of supporting small enterprises and marketing domestic products, and it will continue until the night of Eid.
Muslim Rahju, the organizer of this exhibition, stated that 200 stalls have been designated for this Eid Bazaar, of which 126 stalls are allocated for women. Mr. Rahju emphasized that various products, including shoes, clothing, handicrafts, and special Eid items, have been showcased in these stalls.
He added that one of the advantages of the Eid Bazaar is that goods are sold at a 20% discount compared to shops within the city, which has led to a great turnout from the public.
Additionally, Islam Jar, the governor of Herat, during his visit to different sections of the exhibition, emphasized further support for domestic production and assured comprehensive cooperation from the local administration in marketing the products of manufacturing companies.
Visitors to the Eid Bazaar mentioned that this exhibition is truly a great opportunity for families, and the prices are cheaper compared to the market while the quality of the products is excellent.
However, the stallholders at this exhibition stated: “This Eid Bazaar is an excellent opportunity for us to introduce our products directly to customers, and the public’s response has been very positive.”
Women participating in this exhibition expressed dissatisfaction with the decline in market sales of their products, rising raw material prices, and lack of access to support programs.
Some industrialists cited the importation of similar goods, visa travel restrictions, and challenges related to raw materials as key obstacles to their work.
They noted that the market for imported foreign goods in the country is still more vibrant than that for domestic products.
While women showcased their artistic achievements, the current government has imposed severe restrictions on girls and women over the past three years. Currently, girls and women are unable to attend school and university.
This government’s action has resulted in millions of female students being deprived of education.
In addition, women have been prohibited from going to sports clubs, restaurants, public baths, being examined by male doctors, traveling without a mahram (male guardian), and working in domestic and international NGOs, as well as even in UN offices in Afghanistan.
