November 20, 2009 - The key finding of the survey is that strong private sector growth, albeit from a small base, is taking place in Afghanistan despite poor governance, weak factor markets, and a lack of innovation.

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Executive Summary

This report summarizes the findings of an enterprise survey conducted from September to November 2008, covering 1,066 firms in 10 Afghan cities. It complements an earlier survey of 338 firms in 2005. This report presents the results of the 2008 survey, along with some comparisons with the 2005 survey and some international comparisons.

Background

Historically, there has been a dearth of information and reliable statistics about Afghanistan’s economy. This report reviews the constraints that firms currently operating in Afghanistan face and provides a basis for possible policy recommendations to address these constraints. It is hoped that the report will be a useful tool to support investment climate reforms and enhance the private sector dialogue in Afghanistan.

Executive Summary (pdf)

Introduction & Background (pdf)

Overall Findings (pdf)

Full Report (pdf)