Relationship Between Exchange Rate and Inflation in Afghanistan

Abstract

Afghanistan is an import dependent country and has been facing perpetual trade balance deficit for decades. In case of imperfect competition in the market or existence of market monopoly, there is a higher chance of reflecting the exchange rate changes on the prices of the goods. In Addition, countries with low level of domestic production and higher amounts of imports usually experience higher degree of the exchange rate pass-through effect on inflation. Countries with high import volumes and low export levels often face a deficit in foreign currency inflows and an excess in outflows. These countries need substantial foreign currency to purchase and import goods from both neighboring and international markets, increasing domestic demand for foreign currencies and consequently leading to domestic currency depreciation. This study investigated the relationship between exchange rates and inflation in Afghanistan, examining how exchange rates impact inflation and the benefits associated with exchange rate mechanisms. The primary research questions include: What is the relationship between exchange rates and inflation in Afghanistan? How does the exchange rate influence inflation in the country? What are the benefits of exchange rate systems? The hypothesis posits that higher inflation typically depresses a country's currency value and that exchange rates directly affect inflation. Additionally, exchange rates determine the value of currency exchanges between different nations. This research aims to elucidate the relationship between exchange rates and inflation in Afghanistan, assess the impact of exchange rates on inflation, and explore the benefits of exchange rate systems. The methodology involves a binary system and utilizes secondary data collected from books, websites, and research papers. Findings indicate that Afghanistan's reliance on imports results in a persistent trade balance deficit, with a significant portion of goods, especially non-food items, being imported due to insufficient domestic production. To import goods, Afghanistan requires foreign currencies, which are typically earned through exports of goods and services as of a result, Afghanistan will experience stability in the exchange rate and in the domestic prices.