The “Strategy for the Development of the Telecommunications Sector of the Republic of Tajikistan until 2040” has been approved in Tajikistan. The document outlines the priorities of state policy, long-term goals, and mechanisms for the development of telecommunications and postal services in the context of digital transformation. This was reported to “Asia-Plus” by the Communications Service under the Government of the RT, citing a comment from the head of the department, Isfandiyor Sadullo.
Presidential Directive and Document Development
In December 2025, the President of Tajikistan, Emomali Rahmon, in his Address to the Majlisi Oli, instructed to develop and present to the government a strategy for the development of the telecommunications sector until 2040. At that time, he emphasized that one of the key tasks remains providing the population with high-speed internet and developing telecommunications infrastructure.
A working group was created in the Communications Service to fulfill this directive. The draft document was formed taking into account the proposals of relevant agencies, after which it was agreed upon and submitted for government approval.
The strategy was adopted on the eve of the professional holiday of communications workers — May 7.
Position of the Communications Service
The head of the Communications Service, Isfandiyor Sadullo, notes in his comment that the document is a key tool for strategic planning in the industry. According to him, the strategy provides a systematic approach to the development of the telecommunications sector and forms the basis for sustainable growth amid digital changes.
He emphasizes that its development took into account the national interests of the country, international obligations, global technological trends, regional risks, and the socio-economic characteristics of Tajikistan.
The Role and Importance of the Strategy
The statement mentions that the strategy defines the priorities of state policy and will serve as a foundation for the development and implementation of state programs in the field of digitalization, telecommunications, and postal services. It also refers to interdepartmental strategic documents, investment projects, and digital transformation programs for government bodies, state enterprises, and regulatory structures.
The document is considered as a basis for the comprehensive development of the industry, including the implementation of modern technologies and the enhancement of management efficiency.
Main Directions of Development
The strategy is aimed at improving the living standards of the population by expanding access to and quality of telecommunications services, developing the technological base of the industry, and modernizing infrastructure. Separate tasks are highlighted for strengthening information security and digital sovereignty, as well as integrating the country into the international digital space.
The document provides for a set of coordinated measures — technical, organizational, regulatory, and staffing — aimed at the sustainable development of the telecommunications sector.
Two Key Goals
Based on the analysis of the current state of the industry, two key goals have been identified. The first goal is to provide the population with high-quality, modern, and affordable telecommunications services that contribute to improving living standards and developing the digital economy.
The second goal is related to achieving sustainable industry development by creating a modern, secure, and reliable digital infrastructure.
It is noted that such goals are considered as a crucial element of state policy in the field of digital transformation and innovative development, which should enhance the role of the industry in the socio-economic development of the country.
Access to Telecommunications and Digital Inequality
To achieve the first goal, it is planned to ensure access to mobile and fixed telecommunications in all settlements with a population of more than 700 people. In parallel, the development of high-speed networks, including 4G, 5G, FTTH, and satellite solutions, is planned.
It is also planned to implement service quality standards, reduce tariff burdens, and ensure tariff transparency. A separate block is related to the integration of telecommunications with digital services in the fields of education, healthcare, finance, and public administration.
Infrastructure, Investments, and Security
As part of the second goal, the modernization of the national telecommunications infrastructure is planned. This includes the development of fiber-optic backbones, the creation of a national internet traffic exchange point (IXP), and the construction of data centers.
Strengthening information security and improving the regulatory framework are envisaged. The task of attracting investments, including through public-private partnership mechanisms, is also outlined.
The strategy separately outlines measures for the training and retraining of personnel in the field of information and communication technologies and the expansion of international cooperation. In the long term, this should contribute to transforming Tajikistan into a digital transit center of Central Asia.
Implementation Stages
The implementation of the strategy will be conducted in three stages. The first stage, scheduled for 2026–2030, involves eliminating digital inequality and creating basic infrastructure.
The second stage, in 2031–2035, plans for the active implementation of innovative technologies and the expansion of digital services.
The third stage, covering 2036–2040, envisions the formation of modern digital infrastructure integrated into the global digital space.
Financing
The total funding volume for the first stage will be 6.6 billion somoni. Of this, about 89.7% of the funds are planned to be attracted from the private sector. Another 6.6% will be provided by development partners, 3% will come from special funds, and 0.7% will come from the state budget.
Expected Results and Implementation
The implementation of the strategy is aimed at expanding and modernizing telecommunications networks, including the introduction of 4G and 5G technologies, as well as developing fiber-optic infrastructure. This should improve the quality and accessibility of services, including in remote regions, and reduce the gap between urban and rural areas.
Additionally, the document creates a foundation for the development of e-government, online services, and e-commerce, enhancing transparency and management efficiency, as well as creating favorable conditions for attracting investments and fostering innovations.
The execution of the strategy will be ensured by the Communications Service under the Government of Tajikistan in cooperation with ministries, local authorities, international partners, and the private sector.
