The export of Tajik agricultural products faces a number of problems that complicate entry into international markets. Let's list 10 key issues and discuss potential solutions.
Tajikistan needs modern logistics centers
One of the main problems for Tajik farmers and exporters remains the lack of modern logistical infrastructure – large distribution centers, cold storage warehouses, and refrigerated transport.
Farmers are forced to sell their harvest immediately after picking, which not only reduces their income but also leads to significant losses in the market, where prices often fall due to seasonal surpluses.
Additionally, there is a missed opportunity to export goods within optimal timelines.
Creating modern logistics centers with storage and processing systems would improve the situation.
High transport costs
High transport costs remain one of the most serious obstacles to the effective export of Tajik products, reducing their competitiveness on global markets. Tajikistan, being a landlocked country, is dependent on transit states, complicating logistics and increasing transport costs.
To address these issues, experts believe that comprehensive measures to improve infrastructure and create effective transit mechanisms need to be implemented.
Customs barriers
Delays in shipments, especially perishable goods, remain a pressing issue. Experts note that the lengthy processing of documents, which can take from several hours to several days, significantly complicates the process.
According to experts, one of the main solutions to this problem is automation and the implementation of a “single window” system.
Another important step is simplifying product certification and inspection procedures. Experts believe that creating common rules and requirements for all countries in the Central Asian region will harmonize standards and unify certification processes.
Also, creating green corridors for perishable goods is an important step.
Lack of international certification and logistical limitations
Another problem is the lack of international certifications such as ISO, HACCP, and GlobalG.A.P. These certifications are required for exporting products to Europe and the Middle East.
According to specialists from the Export Agency, to address this issue, it is necessary to support and develop product certification systems, as well as create laboratories for testing. Additionally, farmers should be actively trained on international standards, which will increase the competitiveness of Tajik products on the global market.
Processing is the path to increased profits
Limited processing capabilities force Tajikistan to export raw materials and then import processed products. This increases costs and reduces profits, making the country's economy more vulnerable to fluctuations in foreign markets.
There is a need to develop processing in the domestic market and improve transit routes through negotiations with neighboring countries, which will create more favorable conditions for the delivery of goods. Moreover, financial instruments need to be introduced to support exporters.
Credit trap
High interest rates on loans, ranging from 18% to 25% annually, create serious difficulties for small and medium-sized businesses when modernizing production and improving product quality. Entrepreneurs note that high interest rates create a real financial trap for agricultural producers. Farmers are forced to spend most of their funds on repaying loans, making it difficult for them to invest in modernization and technological upgrades.
Export diversification
Tajikistan's economy is heavily reliant on exports to the CIS countries, making it vulnerable to demand fluctuations and changes in trade conditions. One way to solve this problem is to diversify exports to China, Turkey, and the countries of the Persian Gulf.
According to Bahrriddin Sirojiddinzoda, head of the Export Development Agency, many Tajik exporters prefer to ship products through EAEU countries to reduce customs duties, leading to the registration of goods as products of other countries. This hampers the promotion of the Tajik brand in the international market.
Phytosanitary barriers
Differences in quarantine and phytosanitary standards between countries complicate the work of local producers, and the lack of standard harmonization and accredited laboratories leads to product returns or delays at the border. There are also problems due to complex certification procedures.
A comprehensive approach is needed to solve these issues. Accredited laboratories must be established for rapid quality checks and the issuance of international phytosanitary certificates.
Harmonizing standards with trading partners will simplify the recognition of Tajik certificates abroad, and implementing digital phytosanitary certificates will speed up customs clearance.
Lack of incentives
To stimulate export development, this year, the best exporters, regardless of ownership type, will be nominated for state awards.
At the end of January 2025, a ceremony was held in Dushanbe to award the winners of the Republican competition "Best Exporter of Tajikistan." 51 companies became winners and laureates.
The competition was organized by the Export Development Agency in cooperation with ministries, agencies, and development partners.
Creation of a national brand
The lack of a unified national brand also hinders direct exports of goods under the Tajik brand. Implementing international quality standards and developing a certification system will increase trust among foreign buyers.
Presenting Tajik products at international exhibitions will enhance their recognition, and the digitalization of export processes through online platforms and the “Single Window” system will simplify access to foreign markets.
