Afghanistan opium cultivation surges despite ban
Summary
Opium poppy cultivation in Afghanistan has more than quadrupled in 2026 despite the Taliban ban, with output rising to 1,500 tonnes as poverty pushes farmers back to the crop. The UN says many farmers need viable alternatives to escape the illicit trade.
Key Points
- Opium poppy cultivation in Afghanistan rose to 43,000 hectares in 2026, up from 10,000 hectares in 2025, despite the Taliban ban.
- Estimated opium production jumped from 300 tonnes to 1,500 tonnes, according to the UNODC.
- Poverty and lack of alternatives are pushing farmers in provinces like Badakhshan back into poppy farming.
- UNODC says the ban is difficult to sustain without economic support and alternative livelihoods for farmers.
