Afghanistan produced more than 1.35 million metric tons of melons this year, according to data released by the Taliban-run Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock.
In a statement issued Wednesday, the ministry said total production reached 1,358,000 metric tons across the country. The main producing provinces included Badghis, Balkh, Herat, Jawzjan, Kandahar, Zabul, and Nangarhar, where large areas are dedicated to melon cultivation.
According to the ministry, 74,476 hectares of farmland were planted with melons this year.
Afghan melons are known across the region for their sweetness and quality. Several local varieties are cultivated, including Chughtai, Shekarpara, Jean Tor, Sabzak, Arkani, Lobia Amiri, and Zanborcha. Some, such as the thin-skinned nazok-poost, are prone to rapid spoilage, while others, like shakoori, have thicker skins and longer shelf life.
The ministry did not provide comparative figures for last year's harvest.
Source: AMU
