The OVOP “TOJIKZAMIN” shop has been established within the framework of the “Project for the Vitalization of Local Business in Central Asia through the One Village One Product Movement” implemented by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade (MEDT). The brand offers organic food, bee products, traditional crafts, and natural cosmetics.
The ceremony was attended by JICA Vice-President Mr. Yoshikawa, Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mr. Abdurahmonzoda, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Republic of Tajikistan, H.E. Ms. Furuta, Chief Representative of JICA Tajikistan Office Mr. Imai, and project expert Mr. Haraguchi. This is the first visit of the JICA Vice-President to Tajikistan. The Vice President held several meetings including a meeting with First Deputy Prime Minister of the Republic of Tajikistan H.E. Mr. Holiqzoda, where they discussed bilateral cooperation.
The ceremony brought together government officials, representatives of embassies, development partners, business associations, entrepreneurs and other interested parties. During the event, Japanese experts briefly presented the progress of the OVOP project in Tajikistan and demonstrated products and samples already developed. Participants had the opportunity to tour the shop, sample the products, and provide recommendations and feedback.
The goal of the OVOP movement is to develop products that highlight the uniqueness of each region and contribute to sustainable economic growth by creating added value, differentiating, and promoting local agricultural and handicraft products.
The OVOP movement, which originated in Oita Prefecture, Japan in 1979, was a response to the challenges faced by rural communities—particularly the youth migration to urban areas to seek better jobs. Following the many successes of the movement in Japan, the OVOP initiative has been spread globally through JICA’s projects.
This project is in line with the priorities of the Government of Tajikistan, as outlined in the National Development Strategy up to 2030, in terms of supporting entrepreneurship and creating a favorable business environment. JIСA considers the job creation in regions through the production of local products from local resources to be very important for socio-economic development of the rural population.
At the Ceremony, Mr. Yoshikawa noted: “OVOP is an initiative that highlights the unique resources, culture, and history of each region. It empowers local people, especially women, to take the lead in discovering resources, developing products, producing items, and connecting them to the local and international markets. This project is not merely about “selling products” but about fostering regional pride, creating stable livelihoods, and building a sustainable local economy.”
JICA is committed to continuing to support the development of the Republic of Tajikistan in close cooperation with the Government of Japan.
