Female shopkeepers at the only women's market in Mazar-e-Sharif, the capital of Balkh, expressed concerns about a drop in sales.

The market is named “Khadija al Kubra” and located in the provincial capital city.

“As we are on the eve of Eid al-Adha, we urge women to come here to shop because we are selling good quality products,” said Rohina, a journalist.

“The products and materials which we have is particularly for the girls, and it is between 15 to 20 percent discounted compared to other markets,” said Khatira Halemi, a shopkeeper.

“They can easily test the clothes on themselves. The materials which they cannot purchase from the men, they can purchase from us here,” said Liza Sadaat, a resident of Mazar-e-Sharif.

This comes as the department of industry and commerce of Balkh said that programs are underway to facilitate markets for female shopkeepers.

“This market has established and we will make further efforts for its improvement and expansion so the market can make further progress, hence an environment is paved for the women to feel comfortable,” said Naseer Ahmad Niazai, deputy head of the department.