Newly opened China market brings life, opportunity to Kabul

KABUL, Jan. 29 (Xinhua) -- Every morning, long before noon, families begin streaming toward the newly opened China market in Kabul. Shopping bags are filled quickly, children weave through the crowded aisles, and the soft rumble of carts blends with the chatter of customers.

Although the market has been operating for only two weeks, it has already become a familiar part of the city's everyday life.

"The number of customers has been unprecedented," said Khorshid Habibi, a 22-year-old sales manager at the market who earns 20,000 afghanis per month and supports a family of 10. "People come from all parts of Kabul because prices are reasonable and the quality is high."

Unlike many traditional markets, the China market employs many women, creating a comfortable space for families, especially female shoppers. "The presence of female staff has made families feel more comfortable," Habibi added.

Inside, the pace is relentless. Shelves are restocked almost as quickly as they empty. Omid, 23, who manages the warehouse and works from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day, said the high demand requires constant work. "On many days, we refill the shelves twice. Customers leave happy, and some return two or three times."

A simple equation, affordable prices plus good quality, has resulted in loyal customers and packed aisles. "Investment can create jobs for young people," Omid added. "Afghanistan has a strong workforce, and with opportunities, people won't feel forced to migrate."

The market employs 25 people, including men and women, and was established through joint investment by Afghan and Chinese partners. Financial Manager Rafatullah Qasimi said thousands of people now visit the market every day. "The goods we initially brought have already sold out, and new shipments will arrive soon," he said.

Every day, as families leave with full bags and smiling faces, the promise of economic recovery grows a little more real.

For market director Rahmat Qasimi, the idea began more than a year ago, inspired by something difficult to watch. "When I saw boys and girls selling on the streets, it hurt me," he said. "I kept thinking there must be a better way."

After visiting markets in several countries, he gradually shaped a vision: a center that could offer affordable goods, stable employment, and a bridge between Afghan and Chinese traders. That vision now stands in the heart of Kabul, busy from morning until night.

Plans are already underway for a second center that will support street vendors by providing goods at cost price, allowing them to earn a daily income and eventually become independent business owners.

Even the Chinese partners, initially cautious about demand, were surprised by the public response. "Chinese partners were initially cautious, but they were amazed by the strong crowds," Qasimi said.

"Afghanistan, having endured years of war, is in urgent need of reconstruction. We hope to bring more high-quality and affordable goods to Afghanistan in the future, and we also hope that our market will serve as a bridge of friendship between China and Afghanistan," said Ma Haishan, the Chinese partner of the China Market.

In a city slowly regaining its commercial path, the China market has become more than a shopping center. It is a place of movement, opportunity, and small hopes stacking up like boxes in the warehouse, each carrying the promise of work, dignity, and a brighter economic future.■