Herat Woman’s Beauty Products Reach U.S., European Markets

A woman in Herat has established a cosmetics factory, creating job opportunities for more than 20 women and girls.

Hamida Omari established the factory about a year ago with an investment of 5,000 afghanis, and its products are now exported to several countries, including the United States, France and Iran.

Speaking about her business, Hamida Omari said: “Our customers are from different provinces of Afghanistan, as well as Afghans living abroad, including in Iran, the United States and France.”

An employee at the cosmetics factory, Aziza Hashemi, said: “Our production was very limited. We started on a small scale and gradually expanded. The women who have used our products have given us a very positive response.”

The factory produces 12 types of beauty products made from medicinal herbs.

Another factory employee, Nahid, said: “All the women work together here. We hope to make even more progress in this place.”

Most of the factory’s employees are responsible for supporting their families.

They say they are happy to have been provided with job opportunities at the factory.

Employee Saeeda said: “I receive a salary for working at this company, and I use it to cover my household expenses.”

Another employee, Asal, said: “My hope is that more job opportunities will be created for women and that unemployed women will be able to find work.”

Hamida Omari is one of hundreds of women in Herat who have turned to business activities in recent years.

According to the Herat Chamber of Women’s Commerce and Industries, more than 1,000 women and girls have started business activities over the past three years, creating job opportunities for thousands of other women and girls.