Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Tajikistan have the potential to play a key role in diversifying the national economy over the next 5–10 years, Ms. Simone Ze Atanasovski, Regional Director for Central Asia and Mongolia at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), told Asia-Plus in an interview.
Speaking during her working visit to Tajikistan, Atanasovski highlighted the EBRD’s commitment to supporting private sector development through tailored programs such as Women in Business, Youth in Business, and Star Venture. These initiatives provide access to finance, training, mentorship, and consulting for local companies.
“Improving the business environment and giving equal opportunities to women and youth is not just about fairness—it’s an economic necessity,” she said in an interview with Asia-Plus.
Since 2007, over 1,000 Tajik companies have benefited from EBRD’s Advice for Small Businesses program. More than 3,000 jobs have been created as a result of these efforts.
Atanasovski noted that many Tajik SMEs face barriers including high interest rates, lack of collateral, and limited financial planning skills.
“We’re working with local banks and microfinance institutions, but also helping businesses become investment-ready,” she explained.
This year, the EBRD is launching the MicroMentor platform in Tajikistan—an online network connecting local entrepreneurs with over 9,000 international mentors. Available in Russian, the platform offers targeted support for business development.
The EBRD sees strong growth potential for Tajik SMEs in agribusiness, renewable energy, digital services, and tourism—especially in regions like the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region (GBAO) and Khatlon province.
Agribusiness remains the foundation of the country’s economy. The development of agro-clusters, supported by the national strategy through 2040, will help boost productivity, introduce technology, and strengthen food security.
Renewable energy—particularly small hydro and solar—reportedly offers new opportunities for SMEs. However, investments and awareness-raising are needed. EBRD is ready to support the green transition.
Digitalization creates opportunities in e-commerce, fintech, and IT. Government initiatives on electronic services and digital payments, along with regional cooperation, are expanding these prospects.
Tourism, especially in GBAO and the Khatlon province, could become a driver of local development, EBRD official said.
“This is my third visit to Tajikistan, and I can confidently say that local entrepreneurs’ interest in EBRD support is steadily growing. I’m particularly impressed by the adaptability and initiative of business owners in regions such as Khatlon and GBAO.”
Tajik entrepreneurs are showing growing interest in digitalization, exports, and brand-building, Atanasovski emphasized, noting that the EBRD mission is to help them build stronger, more sustainable businesses.
To broaden the reach of its work, EBRD aims to:
- Raise awareness—especially in remote areas—through partners, media, and chambers of commerce;
- Strengthen cooperation with local banks and organizations;
- Simplify access to finance, especially for women and youth;
- Expand mentorship and peer-to-peer learning.
“Entrepreneurs in Tajikistan are eager to grow. We’re ready to help them build resilient businesses and strengthen their contribution to the country’s economy.”
