For generations, coppersmiths have plied their trade in northern Balkh province, but the few that are left say they are struggling to survive in Afghanistan’s battered economy.
They say the market for handmade copper products has shrunk over the years and that people no longer use their pots, pans and water jugs as they did in the past.
They have in turn appealed to the public to start using their household items instead of buying mass produced imported items.
A number of coppersmiths in Mazar-e-Sharif city say one of their biggest problems is that the market is flooded with cheap, foreign goods.
Chamber of Craftsmen in Balkh officials acknowledge the industry is shrinking but have said efforts are being made to boost the sector. They have also appealed to the public to support domestic products.
