With the support of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Tajikistan has begun implementing measures to ensure the sustainable development of its apricot production sector. The initiative is being carried out under FAO’s “One Country – One Priority Product” (OCOP) program, FAO Tajikistan’s communications service told Asia-Plus.
FAO notes that around 10% of the world’s apricot orchards are located in Tajikistan. Despite this strong potential, the sector faces serious challenges, including outdated production technologies and increasing climate-related risks.
To address these issues, FAO has decided to support the sustainable development of the country’s apricot sector within the framework of the OCOP initiative.
A series of national training programs will be launched in February as part of the project. The courses will be delivered both online and in person and will focus on building the capacity of stakeholders across the entire value chain — from farmers to processors and exporters. The programs are being implemented by FAO in partnership with the public organization Nexigol Mushovir.
The training sessions will continue until the end of March.
The training activities aim to promote climate-resilient and innovative apricot cultivation practices. Special attention will be given to modern agricultural technologies, efficient resource use, post-harvest handling, and improved national-level coordination. These measures are expected to increase yields while reducing environmental pressure.
Beyond training, the OCOP initiative supports the sector’s long-term development. A national task force is being established, a value chain analysis is underway, and sector modernization strategies are being developed.
The program involves representatives of relevant ministries and government agencies, farmers, research and civil society organizations, cooperatives, processing companies, exporters, and industry associations.
Tajikistan ranks among the world’s leading producers and exporters of apricots. However, the sector continues to face challenges such as limited access to finance, outdated production methods, weak market integration, and climate risks.
Under the OCOP initiative, Tajikistan is strengthening the entire value chain — from production and storage to processing and exports. This approach is expected to increase farmers’ incomes, reduce post-harvest losses, enhance climate resilience, and improve the country’s position in global agricultural markets.
“The success of the apricot sector depends on effective national coordination, informed decision-making, and the application of sustainable practices in line with international standards,” said Aghasi Harutyunyan, FAO Representative in Tajikistan. “Through the OCOP initiative, FAO is helping Tajikistan build a sustainable apricot value chain that benefits farmers, local communities, and the national economy.”
FAO’s One Country – One Priority Product initiative supports countries in selecting and systematically developing a single priority agricultural product. Tajikistan has chosen apricots due to their strong economic importance, cultural value, and significant potential for processing and market expansion.
