USGS scientists have identified five new areas of interest (AOI) and  two subareas in Afghanistan, adding to a list of 24 areas of interest identified in a 2011 study titled, “Summaries and Data Packages of Important Areas for Mineral Investment and Production Opportunities of Nonfuel Minerals in Afghanistan.” Vast areas of natural mineral resources can be found in Afghanistan, and extracting and producing these resources could improve Afghanistan’s current economic situation

The areas of interest are Ahankashan, Kandahar, Parwan, North Bamyan, and South Bamyan, and the subareas are Obatu-Shela and Sekhab-ZamtoKalay, both of which are located in the larger Kandahar AOI (map). The datasets contain topographic contour intervals of 100-, 50-, and 25-meter intervals, and hydrographic data for the new study areas. The datasets are intended to facilitate mineral assessment, monitoring, management, and investment by developmental organizations, government agencies, and private companies in Afghanistan.  As discussed on the USGS website, the report indicates areas that are important to the industrial growth and development of Afghanistan, and provides information so that any policy decisions regarding mineral resources can be well-informed.