BUILDING A GLOBAL EXPORT MODEL FOR AFGHANISTAN'S ASAFOETIDA (HING) INDUSTRY: CULTIVATION, PROCESSING AND VALUE ADDITION

The article presents a strategic model for cultivating, processing, and exporting Asafoetida (Ferula assa-foetida) in Afghanistan. Asafoetida is a high-value spice and medicinal product, with India being the largest global consumer. Although Afghanistan supplies a significant portion of global demand, the country primarily exports raw resin. This article proposes an integrated approach that includes expanded cultivation, domestic processing, quality assurance, and branding to move up the value chain. A detailed PESTEL and SWOT analysis identifies enabling factors and risks, while global market data underscores the potential for premium positioning in organic and health-focused markets