Urban Commerce & Jobs: Herat authorities have started building a 38 million afghani underground market, aiming to cut traffic congestion and better organize lab and pharmacy services near the provincial hospital, with completion targeted in six months. Agriculture & Rural Development: Afghanistan’s agriculture ministry and UNDP agreed to expand cooperation on irrigation, alternative livelihoods, and rural infrastructure, including fertiliser support, greenhouses, and water facilities. Trade & Investment Push: ACCI chief says Afghanistan is looking beyond imports toward export growth and Indian investment, with priority areas including mining, food processing, and pharma. Macroeconomic Reality Check: The World Bank reports Afghanistan’s economy is recovering but per-capita living standards keep falling as population growth and migration strain demand and investment. Drug Control Enforcement: Afghan police in Helmand destroyed a drug-processing lab and seized production materials, while earlier operations reported poppy farm demolitions and lab destruction in other provinces. Industry Events: Kabul is set to host the Fifth National Industry Week Exhibition, signaling continued efforts to showcase domestic production and attract business links. Women’s Rights Pressure: A new account highlights widening, structural restrictions on education and public participation for women and girls across Afghanistan.