Food safety regulations in Afghanistan: progress, gaps, and future directions

Abstract Food safety is a critical public health and economic issue in Afghanistan, where regulatory frameworks are evolving in response to complex political, social, and infrastructural challenges. This study examines the current state of food safety regulations in Afghanistan, highlighting progress made, existing gaps, and potential areas for improvement. Over the past two decades, Afghanistan has made notable strides in developing food safety policies, especially through the creation of organizations such as the Afghanistan National Standards Authority (ANSA) and the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), which have taken steps to align with international food safety standards. However, the implementation and enforcement of these regulations remain inconsistent due to limited technical capacity, fragmented institutional coordination, inadequate laboratory infrastructure, and post-transition challenges that hinder monitoring and compliance. The analysis identifies serious gaps in regulatory coverage, including outdated legislation, weak surveillance systems, and a lack of risk-based approaches to food safety management. Additionally, informal market key players in the Afghan food supply chain often operate outside regulatory oversight, increasing the risk of foodborne diseases (FBDs). Through a comprehensive review of national policies, international collaborations, and practical efforts, this study offers a critical assessment of Afghanistan's food safety environment. It also explores opportunities to improve governance, build capacity, and raise public awareness. The study concludes with strategic recommendations, such as aligning standards with international benchmarks, investing in infrastructure and human resources, and fostering regional cooperation to strengthen Afghanistan’s food safety system in a sustainable and resilient way.