Key Strategies for Enhancing Afghanistan’s Gross Domestic Product Growth: Analysis of Internal and External Influential Factors

Abstract

This study aims to examine the internal and external factors affecting the growth of Afghanistan’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). A mixed-method approach, combining quantitative and qualitative techniques, was employed. Data were collected through questionnaires distributed to 91 employees from the Ministry of Economy, the National Statistics and Information Authority, universities professors, and analyzed using SPSS software. The reliability coefficient of the questionnaire, measured by Cronbach’s alpha, was 0.816, indicating good reliability and high confidence. The Friedman test revealed a statistically significant difference in respondents’ views on the impact levels of various factors, with a Chi-square value of 397.776 and a significance level (Sig.) of 0.000 (p < 0.05). Furthermore, this research proposes a conceptual model categorizing internal and external factors into four key dimensions: capacities, internal barriers, opportunities, and external threats. This model offers an analytical and policy-oriented framework for economic growth in the fragile context of Afghanistan. Results indicate that among the examined factors, internal elements, such as increased domestic investment, infrastructure development, skilled human resource enhancement, and strengthening of industrial and agricultural sectors, have the most significant impact on economic growth. Based on the findings, sustainable economic growth requires government focus on developing internal capacities, structural reforms, and private sector support.