Flood Response & Agriculture: UNICEF reports flash floods (July 20–Aug 3) killed at least 26 people and damaged homes, roads, markets and irrigation in Nuristan and across central provinces, with about 1.6 million sq meters of farmland affected and livestock losses. Rural Development & Infrastructure Quality: The Taliban says Daikundi development projects worth over 12.6 million afghani are completed, including roads and irrigation work, but locals also warn parts of the Kabul–Kandahar highway were damaged again, raising durability concerns. Mining & Local Livelihoods: In Badakhshan, residents fear Chinese mining expansion is blocking access with camps and operating without enough environmental safeguards, while analysts say investment and jobs come with dependency and geopolitical risks. Women’s Economic Impact: Experts warn Taliban restrictions on women’s education and employment have removed a major share of the workforce, cutting incomes and slowing growth, with a future shortage of skilled female professionals. Trade & Industry Shock (Regional): A US–Canada tariff fight deepened after talks collapsed, with 50% US tariffs on $20b of Canadian goods expected to hit sectors like steel, dairy and agricultural equipment—an example of how trade disruptions can ripple into supply chains. Energy & Transit: Belarus signals it wants to expand trade with Afghanistan, including direct agreements to transport and import petroleum products and boost industrial investment. Private Sector Production (Agri-Industry): Herat beekeepers report honey output up 50% year-on-year to nearly 250 tons, while they push back against low-quality imported honey flooding local markets. Security & Business Risk: Crisis Group warns unrest is growing in northern Afghanistan, citing disputes tied to poppy eradication and mining revenues, including armed challenges to Taliban control in Badakhshan. Returnee Support: Afghanistan’s Ministry of Refugees and Repatriation says it distributed $2.612m in aid to returnees and displaced families, including cash, food, shelter repairs and employment support.