E-commerce is becoming one of the key drivers of sustainable economic growth in Tajikistan. In his latest address to both chambers of parliament, President Emomali Rahmon declared 2025-2030 as the "Years of Development of Digital Economy and Innovations," emphasizing the need for the implementation of new technologies and the expansion of digital opportunities for citizens.
In this context, Bank Arvand Bank announces its strategic investment partnership with OBBO – the first socially oriented marketplace in Tajikistan, aimed at supporting self-employed citizens, artisans, and budding entrepreneurs.
The bank notes that one of the key advantages of the OBBO platform is the ability to purchase goods through installment payments, arranged via four financial organizations, including Bank Arvand. This reportedly makes shopping more accessible to a wider audience and reduces barriers to participation in e-commerce.
Thanks to this investment, Bank Arvand is expanding its own digital ecosystem and gaining access to OBBO's extensive supplier and client base. In addition, the bank is leveraging its own network of offices and a team of trainers as part of the "Mompreneur" project, supporting female economic activity across the country.
"Entrepreneurs often face difficulties in finding customers and markets to sell their products. Rent and other business costs often hinder achieving their full potential. Marketplaces like OBBO are an effective solution for expanding sales channels, developing e-commerce, and trade in the country. Our support for OBBO is an investment not only in a promising business but also in the digital future of Tajikistan. We believe that the development of e-commerce is one of the most important steps toward expanding opportunities for self-employed citizens and entrepreneurs," said a representative of Arvand Bank's management.
The project has reportedly already proven itself in the market and continues to develop actively. The plans for 2025 include expanding OBBO’s infrastructure: installing 50 parcel lockers, 10+ pickup points, and 50 touch kiosks across the country, including in hard-to-reach regions. A mobile app will be launched, as well as the creation of the OBBO Academy and Seller's Club.
This step fully aligns with Arvand Bank's strategy for developing financial inclusion, digitizing services, and supporting sustainable social initiatives in the country.
Founded in 2002, Bank Arvand provides non-financial services such as training and consulting. Currently, Bank Arvand offers services at over 70 banking service centers, employing nearly a thousand highly qualified specialists.
Its shareholders reportedly include MKK "Frontiers" LLC, Rural Impulse Fund II S.A. SICAV-SIF, Access Microfinance Holding AG, Triodos Sicav II, and Legal Owner Triodos Funds B.V.
