Prices for everyday goods and services continue to climb in Tajikistan, affecting the daily lives of citizens across the country. In a series of street interviews, residents of Dushanbe shared their thoughts on what’s driving the price hikes — and how it’s impacting their lives.
For some, the cause lies in global economic pressures; others point fingers at local producers and merchants. A number of respondents believe inflation and currency fluctuations are to blame, while others argue that middlemen and weak price regulation are exacerbating the issue.
Despite differing views, one sentiment was unanimous: the rising cost of living is forcing families to cut back — even on basic necessities.
Meanwhile, some local experts says prices are rising in Tajikistan due to increased transportation and fuel costs, poor local harvests, global supply chain disruptions exacerbated by the Russia-Ukraine war and the pandemic, and increased reliance on higher-priced imports. Recent significant price jumps for vegetables, bread, and meat are specifically linked to a decline in available food supplies, both domestically and internationally.
