Cement Pollution Protest: Baghlan residents say Ghori Cement’s smoke and particles are settling on homes and worsening health, blaming substandard fuels, weak filtration, and poor Taliban oversight. Economic Strategy: The Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Investment held its second think tank session, pushing for a permanent forum to boost domestic production, exports, jobs, and economic self-sufficiency. Land Rights Legal Review: Kabul’s Omid-e Sabz Township owner says a Taliban court declaring the area “Emirate property” needs document-based legal review, after earlier state-property seizures. Wheat Input Crisis: FAO warns rising fertilizer prices could cut Afghanistan’s 2027 wheat harvest, calling for $38.3m to help 600,000 farming households afford DAP/urea and certified seed. Trade & Transit Talks: Afghanistan and Turkmenistan discussed expanding trade and a new Charjow–northern Afghanistan transit route to Mazar-e-Sharif, with an invited investor delegation. Carpet Exports: Herat’s handwoven carpet exports rose 5% in the first quarter, reaching over $100,000 and supporting women-led weaving jobs. Water Heritage: UNESCO restored 16 qanats with Japanese support, benefiting 1,731 families and protecting historic irrigation systems. Industry & Commerce Update: Taliban says Iran is Afghanistan’s largest trading partner, with annual trade volume hitting $3.6b and alternative routes growing as Pakistan disruptions continue.