Tajikistan has announced plans to significantly expand its economic partnership with Turkiye, aiming to increase bilateral trade to US$1 billion. The statement was made by Tajikistan's First Deputy Prime Minister, Hokim Kholiqzoda, during a meeting with Turkiye’s Minister of Labor and Social Security, Vedat Işıkhan, in Dushanbe on September 23.
Kholiqzoda identified key sectors for future cooperation, including the textile industry, aluminum processing, and the establishment of joint ventures. He also emphasized the importance of the upcoming session of the Tajik-Turkish Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation, scheduled for October in Dushanbe.
In addition to trade, the two sides discussed expanding cooperation in tourism, education, and cultural exchanges. They also reviewed ongoing joint projects in the social sector, supported by the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA).
According to the Agency for Statistics under the President of Tajikistan, the bilateral trade between the two countries exceeded US$277.4 million between January and August 2025 — a 2.2% increase compared to the same period in 2024.
A two-way trade has reportedly shown a steady upward trend in recent years. In 2022, trade turnover reached US$351.2 million, with Tajikistan recording a surplus of US$7.9 million. The figure rose to US$363 million in 2023, although the country registered a trade deficit of US$32.3 million that year. By 2024, the situation improved again — trade turnover increased to US$445.8 million, and Tajikistan returned to a surplus of US$32.3 million.
Labor cooperation deepens with new bilateral action plan
As part of his visit, Turkish Minister Vedat Işıkhan also participated in the inaugural session of the Turkiye–Tajikistan Joint Working Committee. The committee focused on the implementation of a long-standing cooperation agreement signed in 2002 and explored new areas of collaboration.
Discussions included labor inspection development, workplace safety improvements, digitization of employment services, professional skills development, and conducting comparative labor studies.
Following the session, Tajikistan’s Minister of Labor, Migration, and Employment, Soleha Kholmahmadzoda, and Minister Işıkhan signed a protocol confirming a 2026–2027 Action Plan. The agreement outlines expanded cooperation in employment initiatives and vocational training.
According to Turkish newspaper Milliyet, Işıkhan reaffirmed Turkiye’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and supporting joint development projects during his trip. He also took to social media to express his satisfaction with the visit, highlighting the strategic importance of the newly signed agreements for the future of economic ties between Turkiye and Tajikistan
