Afghan Businesses Look to Expand, Despite 2014 Worries

April 21, 2013

As international troops prepare to leave Afghanistan in 2014, some businesses and aid groups are looking to curb their investments in the country. But others are planning to expand, despite the uncertainty. Bethany Matta reports from Kabul.

Even for those Afghans who are not anxious about the security situation when foreign troops withdraw, 2014 still creates anxiety when it comes to businesses and the economy.

Afghanistan's economy grew around 11 percent last year, but the expected decline in military and civilian aid and uncertain security situation makes some investors wary.

Abass, a local store owner, said "When people say 2014 is going to be a dangerous year, in my view, nothing will happen. But, as far as 2014 goes for business, it (will) have an impact on trade and business."

Despite worries about the security situation and the capability of the government, many businesses are planning to expand - such as Coca Cola, with its line of Minute Maid juices.

The company wants to invest millions more to increase capacity, but land is a problem. The factory and parking lot are already used for storage.

East Horizon also faces its own difficulties, but land is not one of them. They've taken their investment to the skies.

The airline, opening just four months ago, already has seven routes.