Director General of ANSA:
Al Haj Faizullah Tamim (20230413)
 

Background:

Following a major restructuring of the Afghan National Standards Authority (ANSA), customs officials now conduct rigorous inspections at all border crossings, airports, and major marketplaces. Over the past year (2024), authorities have intercepted and either returned or destroyed dozens of shipping containers filled with hazardous products.
 

The crackdown has particularly targeted three critical sectors: fraudulent pharmaceuticals, adulterated food items, and substandard construction materials. Public Health Ministry inspectors have shuttered multiple illegal drug manufacturers after conducting surprise raids across the country, while food safety teams now routinely test imported cooking oils, teas, and other staples. Construction sites face increased scrutiny to prevent the use of dangerous building materials.
 

The government has mobilized religious leaders, media outlets, and trade associations to warn consumers about the dangers of substandard products. Newly established complaint centers allow citizens to report suspicious goods directly to authorities.
 

The campaign has yielded concrete results, with numerous importers facing heavy fines, confiscation of merchandise, or legal prosecution. Customs officials report a significant decline in substandard goods since implementing advanced inspection systems at key border crossings like Herat, Nimroz, Torkham, and Islam Qala.

While challenges persist in monitoring remote border areas, officials emphasize their commitment to sustaining what they describe as a “long-term campaign for consumer protection.” The Commerce Ministry predicts these measures will gradually create fairer market conditions for legitimate domestic producers while safeguarding public health.
 

The Islamic Emirate’s efforts reflect broader governance reforms aimed at combating corruption and establishing effective regulatory systems. Officials stress that continued progress will require sustained investment in inspection infrastructure, professional training for customs staff, and ongoing public awareness campaigns about product safety standards.