Kabul, Feb. 6 -- Afghanistan's import-dependent economy is facing renewed strain as prices of basic food items continue to rise despite a sustained fall in the US dollar, according to Tolo News.

Although the dollar has weakened in domestic markets over the past nearly seven months and is currently trading at around 65 afghanis per dollar, essentials such as flour, rice, and cooking oil have recorded sharp increases, defying public expectations.

Citing data accessed by Tolo News, the report said prices of key commodities have climbed by between 100 afghanis and more than 1,000 afghanis, even as the exchange rate declined.

Haroon, a shopkeeper, said, "This has had a major impact. People who used to buy a seer now buy only a kilo. People ...