A new report by the Jamestown Foundation has raised concerns over the Taliban’s control of Afghanistan’s mineral wealth, alleging that the regime is turning natural resources into revenue, political patronage and territorial control rather than economic recovery.
Afghanistan possesses more than 1,400 identified mineral deposits, with total mineral wealth estimated at more than $1 trillion, including lithium, copper, gold, rare earth elements, coal and gemstones.
Taliban Turning Mineral Wealth into Political Power
Since returning to power in August 2021, the Taliban have consolidated control over mining. The regime has awarded at least 205 mining contracts to more than 150 companies and announced agreements worth more than $6.5 billion.
Yet details of many agreements remain undisclosed. The report suggests that access to mining opportunities is shaped by connections to Taliban leaders and loyalist networks, turning natural resources into political patronage.
Badakhshan Becomes a Battleground
The exploitation of mineral wealth is acquiring a security dimension, particularly in Badakhshan.
In late June, Taliban authorities reportedly deployed around 1,000 special forces personnel to strengthen control over mining areas. The province has emerged as a centre of anti-Taliban resistance.
As competition for territory increases, control over mineral deposits becomes more than an economic issue. Who controls the mines increasingly controls the land, revenue and communities.
Where Are the Revenues Going?
According to figures cited by the report, more than 95 percent of reported mining revenue in 2024 was disclosed during the first seven months, while only around $1 million was made public during the following five months.
The report also cites Afghan observers describing a “mineral mafia” allegedly collecting taxes, royalties, licensing fees and payments from miners and traders.
If these allegations are accurate, Afghanistan’s mineral wealth is not becoming public wealth. It is becoming a source of private and political power.
