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Tajikistan identifies key barriers to agricultural exports and ways to address them

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Farmers and agribusiness exporters in Tajikistan face numerous constraints that hinder the sector’s development. The State Export Development Program for 2026–2030 outlines a set of incentive measures aimed at removing these barriers and supporting entrepreneurship.

The document identifies more than 50 challenges affecting agricultural exports and proposes solutions. Below are ten key issues and the government’s planned responses.

1.     Lack of modern logistics infrastructure — One of the main challenges is the shortage of modern logistics centers, cold storage facilities, and refrigerated transport. This leads to product losses, reduced incomes, and limited ability to export goods on time. The government plans to modernize the transport and logistics system. The program includes the construction of logistics complexes with a total area exceeding 50,000 square meters, including low-temperature storage facilities. These measures are expected to reduce losses and expand export capacity.

2.     High transportation costs — High transport costs remain a major obstacle, reducing the competitiveness of Tajik products. As a landlocked country, Tajikistan depends on transit routes, while weak border infrastructure causes delays. The program provides for development of transport corridors, modernization of border infrastructure, and creation of logistics centers to lower costs and improve delivery efficiency.

3.     Customs procedures and delays — Lengthy customs clearance, especially for perishable goods, significantly increases delivery times and affects product quality. Proposed solutions include automation, the introduction of a “single window” system, simplified certification, and the creation of “green corridors” for perishable goods.

4.     Lack of international certification — The absence of internationally recognized certifications (ISO, HACCP, GlobalG.A.P.) limits access to European and Middle Eastern markets. The program aims to develop certification systems, establish laboratories, and train producers in international standards.

5.     Limited processing capacity — Insufficient processing capacity forces the export of raw materials, reducing added value and profitability. The government plans to support processing enterprises, expand domestic processing, and improve logistics.

6.     High cost of credit — Interest rates ranging from 18% to 25% hinder the development of small and medium-sized businesses and limit modernization. Measures include preferential lending programs, guarantee funds, and state subsidies.

7.     Limited export diversification — Heavy reliance on CIS markets increases economic vulnerability. Authorities plan to diversify exports toward China, Turkey, and Gulf countries while improving transport routes and product standards.

8.     Phytosanitary barriers —Differences in standards and the lack of accredited laboratories complicate certification and lead to shipment rejections. Solutions include digital certificates, laboratory development, and harmonization of standards.

9.     Insufficient incentives — Existing support measures, including awards and competitions, are considered insufficient. The program proposes expanding financial and tax incentives and increasing support for SMEs.

10.  Lack of a national brand — Tajik products are often marketed under foreign brands, reducing recognition and competitiveness. Plans include developing a national brand, participating in international exhibitions, and digitalizing export processes.

The implementation of these measures is expected to remove key barriers, enhance competitiveness, and strengthen Tajikistan’s position in global markets.

US sets tentative date for end of conflict with Iran — Ynet

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The United States is considering April 9 as a possible date for ending the military conflict with Iran, Ynet reports, citing an informed Israeli source.

According to the source, the choice of this date may be linked to a planned visit by U.S. President Donald Trump to Israel for Independence Day, celebrated on April 21–22. During the visit, Trump is reportedly expected to receive the Israel Prize, according to RBC.

The source also stated that talks between U.S. and Iranian representatives may take place in Pakistan this week. The possibility of such negotiations was also previously reported by Axios.

Iran’s delegation is expected to be led by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf. On the U.S. side, the talks may include White House Special Envoy Steven Witkoff, Jared Kushner, and possibly Vice President J.D. Vance. Turkiye, Egypt, and Pakistan are said to be acting as mediators.

On March 23, Donald Trump announced “productive negotiations” with Iran and suggested the possibility of a full resolution of differences in the Middle East. In this context, he ordered a five-day suspension of strikes on Iranian territory, as he wrote on the social network Truth Social.

At the same time, Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs denied holding direct negotiations with Washington. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf described reports of talks as “fake news.”

“No negotiations with the United States have taken place, and fake reports are being used to manipulate financial and oil markets and to help the United States and Israel out of the difficult situation they are facing,” Ghalibaf wrote on the social network X.

 

Strikes continue

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel continues to carry out strikes on targets in Iran and Lebanon. His video address was published on March 23 on the social network X.

According to him, the strikes are aimed at Iran’s missile and nuclear infrastructure, as well as at Hezbollah facilities in Lebanon. Netanyahu added that several days ago, two more Iranian scientists linked to the nuclear program were eliminated, noting that “this is not the end.”

In response, Iran carried out strikes on central Israel. The attacks affected Tel Aviv in particular, where damage and injuries have been reported.

Shodi Shabdolov: “A war with Iran will be the end of the USA”

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This short interview was conducted with Shodi Davlatovich Shabdolov at the beginning of January 2020 and published by Asia-Plus on January 7, 2020.

“The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump and the current occupant of the White House himself, through their actions, statements, and attacks against states and politicians they find objectionable, resemble madmen who say whatever they want without fearing the consequences of their actions and statements,” said the well-known Tajik politician Shodi Shabdolov in an interview with Asia-Plus.

Addressing the current tension that has arisen between Washington and Tehran following the killing of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani in Baghdad, Shabdolov emphasized that apparently Trump and his administration today do not have sufficient information about Iran’s military, political, and economic power.

“The United States, having achieved easy victories over the regimes of Muammar Gaddafi in Libya and Saddam Hussein in Iraq, apparently underestimates Iran’s strength and its potential, and this misunderstanding may turn into the beginning of the end for Washington itself,” the politician emphasized.

Shabdolov believes that after the killing of General Soleimani, Iran’s withdrawal from previously reached nuclear agreements has brought official Tehran closer than ever to creating weapons of mass destruction.

According to the politician, Iran’s current military and economic power, even without nuclear weapons, can successfully withstand U.S. threats, and Trump’s statements about Washington’s readiness to strike Iranian cultural heritage sites are turning the civilized society of the entire world, including in the United States, against his policy.

“I am an optimist by nature and am confident that the wise people of this world will resolve the current crisis without war, but if it happens, everyone will suffer from it, including Central Asia, the Caucasus, and the entire Middle East. Russia, China with their investments in the region’s economy, the United States and its allies around the world,” the politician emphasized.

At the same time, he is convinced that in a war with Iran, the United States will not have many allies, including among NATO countries.

“Many clear-minded politicians in Berlin, Paris, Tokyo, London, Moscow, and Beijing understand that a U.S. war with Iran is a road to nowhere; it is a threat not only to the security of Washington and Tehran, it is a threat to all of humanity,” Shabdolov concluded.

Shodi Davlatovich Shabdolov (October 17, 1943 – October 19, 2023) was a Tajik politician who was the chairman of the Communist Party of Tajikistan from 1991 until July 2016, when the party replaced him with Ismoil Talbakov. 

Shodi Davlatovich Shabdolov was born in Khorog, Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region (GBAO).

Shabdolov was a member of the Parliament of Tajikistan (1989-2015).  He had scientific degree of the Candidate of Sciences in Economics.    

Navrouz greetings

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Dear readers and subscribers! Asia-Plus News Agency congratulates you on International Navrouz Holiday!  Let this beautiful spring holiday bring you success, love and happiness!

Eid al-Fitr greetings

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Dear readers and subscribers, Eid Mubarak! May this blessed occasion bring peace, happiness, and prosperity to you and your loved ones. 

Russian ruble weakens against the Tajik national currency and major global currencies

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In recent weeks, the Russian ruble has experienced a significant depreciation against both the Tajik national currency, the somoni, and major global reserve currencies.

The official exchange rate, set daily by the National Bank of Tajikistan (NBT), fell by almost 5.0%, from 1000 rubles per 121.5 somoni on March 13 to 115.3 somoni on March 19.

The ruble's gradual devaluation began following the U.S.-Israel war on Iran on February 28. Since then, the Russian currency has depreciated by 6.4% against the somoni.

During the period from February 28 to March 19, the somoni strengthened by 1.2% against the euro, rising from 11.22 somoni per 1.00 euro on February 28 to 11.08 somoni on March 19.

However, the U.S. dollar appreciated by 1.0% against the somoni, increasing from 9.51 somoni per dollar on February 28 to 9.60 somoni on March 19.

The weakening ruble has a negative impact on the income of families of Tajik migrant workers who rely on money transfers from them from Russia. More than 90% of these transfers are made in rubles.

According to the NBT’s directive, since 2016, money transfers in rubles are paid out to recipients in Tajikistan exclusively in the national currency, the somoni. Therefore, the depreciation of the ruble means a decrease in the purchasing power of ruble transfers. Even if a migrant sends the same amount in rubles, their family in Tajikistan will receive fewer somoni, which limits their financial capacity to cover daily expenses.

 

What is happening to the ruble?

Since the beginning of March, the ruble has depreciated by 7.8% against the dollar, according to Russia’s Central Bank. On March 1, 1 USD was equivalent to 77.27 rubles, while on March 19, the exchange rate has risen to 1:83.13.

Russian experts attribute the ruble's decline to geopolitical tensions and economic challenges, particularly the ongoing conflicts involving the U.S., Israel, Iran, Russia, and Ukraine. The expert’s note that the supply of foreign currency in Russia has significantly decreased, increasing pressure on the ruble.

It is expected that the dollar will continue to appreciate throughout the spring due to the gradual reduction in Russia's key interest rate, a decrease in foreign currency sales by Russian exporters, and the moderate recovery of domestic imports, which in turn will raise the demand for dollars.

 

Key reasons for the ruble's depreciation

1.     Reduced demand for rubles and increased demand for dollars — Investors and market participants tend to move towards "safe-haven" currencies like the dollar and euro during periods of uncertainty, such as geopolitical risks or anticipated economic troubles. This increases demand for these currencies and weakens the ruble.

2.     Reduced foreign currency supply — When exporting companies sell less of their foreign currency earnings (due to a drop in exports or difficulties repatriating funds), the supply of dollars and euros on the market decreases. This creates a currency shortage, making the ruble less attractive.

3.     Expectations of reduction in Russia’s key interest rate — A potential decrease in Russia's key interest rate leads to lower yields on ruble-denominated assets, making the ruble less appealing to investors. This can result in capital outflows into foreign currencies, intensifying pressure on the ruble.

4.     Geopolitical and external economic factors — Periods of uncertainty, such as concerns about sanctions, external trade, or energy prices, cause investors to reduce positions in riskier currencies, including the ruble. This further weakens the ruble.

5.     Long-term vulnerability of the ruble — Although the ruble has recently faced significant pressure, it remains highly sensitive to external economic factors, such as sanctions, export revenues, and global oil and gas prices. These factors could amplify the ruble’s weakening trend, especially in times of crisis expectations.

The ongoing challenges facing the ruble highlight the broader vulnerability of the Russian economy to both internal and external pressures, including geopolitical conflicts and global economic trends.

Over 2,500 participants expected at Water Conference in Dushanbe

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The Fourth High-Level International Conference on the International Decade for Action “Water for Sustainable Development” 2018–2028 will be held in Dushanbe from May 25–28, 2026. Hosted by the Government of Tajikistan and the UN, the event is set to attract over 2,500 participants from 31 countries, along with representatives from 33 international organizations and financial institutions.

At a briefing held in Dushanbe on March 18, Tajikistan’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sanoi Boyzoda, emphasized the global importance of addressing water resource issues, highlighting that "billions of people still lack access to safe drinking water and sanitation." He also pointed out that "climate change, population growth, and the risks of natural disasters are placing unprecedented pressure on water resources," making the conference’s theme highly relevant.

Boyzoda further noted that Tajikistan, as a key center for international water dialogue, continues to actively contribute to shaping global solutions in this area, underlining the country’s role in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly concerning water resources.

Rustam Abdulloyev, Head of the Energy Policy Department at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Tajikistan, presented the conference's program during the briefing.

One of the key topics for discussion will be transboundary cooperation in water resource management. The conference will explore experiences and approaches used for joint management of water systems in countries that share rivers and bodies of water. Special attention will be given to resolving water disputes and finding solutions for the fair and effective distribution of water resources.

Another significant focus of the forum will be innovations in the water sector. Participants will examine cutting-edge technologies and solutions that can help increase water-use efficiency, improve water quality, and contribute to the sustainable use of water resources. This will include both new water purification technologies and methods to optimize water supply in the context of growing populations and climate change.

On May 25, the Asian-Pacific Regional Preparatory Meeting, organized by ESCAP, will kick off, followed by a cultural program for participants in the evening.

The official opening ceremony, international exhibition, plenary sessions, and thematic discussions focusing on continuity in water actions and cooperation at various levels will take place on May 26. An official reception hosted by the Government of Tajikistan will be held in the evening.

On May 27, participants will continue with plenary sessions, as well as informal consultations on water resource issues until 2028 and discussions on the "Water Resources Agenda Beyond 2030." The conference will conclude with a press conference at the end of the day.

The final day, May 28, will feature field visits and excursions, where participants will have the opportunity to explore Tajikistan’s experience in water resource management. These activities will complement the discussions and provide valuable insights into the practical aspects of sustainable water use.

Organizers believe the conference in Dushanbe will continue Tajikistan’s tradition as an important global forum for water issues, contributing to the acceleration of global efforts to solve challenges related to water supply, conservation, and sustainable development.

BARQ becomes new IT Park Dushanbe resident, launches power bank rental service

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A common problem for many city dwellers: a dead phone battery with no access to communication, maps, or important apps like banking services. The team behind BARQ is tackling this issue by creating a convenient urban service to keep people charged on the go.

BARQ is a power bank rental service designed to make it easy to grab a portable charger nearby, use it while on the move, and return it at a convenient location. The project is being developed as a high-tech urban product with a clear user experience, addressing the real needs of modern city residents.

Recently, BARQ achieved a significant milestone by becoming a resident of IT Park Dushanbe. This status marks an important step, validating the project’s potential as a promising technological service for the city.

ИЗОБРАЖЕНИЕ

The official launch of BARQ is planned for April. The first three months will focus on developing the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) — a version of the service with the core features necessary for testing. During this phase, the team plans to test user scenarios, analyze key metrics, identify any issues, refine the service, and optimize operational processes. This approach will ensure the service’s effectiveness and help make an informed decision about transitioning to a full-scale launch.

Initially, 26 stations will be set up in Dushanbe's most popular and high-traffic areas. After optimizing processes, the company plans to expand its network to over 200 stations, making the service more widely available and easily accessible to residents across the city.

Starting in April, Dushanbe residents will be the first to experience BARQ, a new urban service designed to ensure that a power source is always within reach when it's needed most.

 

Some bazaars and shopping centers in Dushanbe to close for up to four days during Navrouz celebrations

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During the Navrouz holiday celebrations, some bazaars and shopping center in Dushanbe will remain closed for periods ranging from 1 to 4 days, according to the Dushanbe Department of Economic Development, Trade, and Monitoring of the city administration.

Since March 20 is the day of Eid al-Fitr, all bazaars will be closed on this day.

During the Navrouz holiday weekend, bazaars, markets and shopping centers will operate on varying schedules. Specifically, the Korvon market (including Korvon-Plus and Korvon-City) will be closed from March 21 to March 24, reopening on March 25.

Meanwhile, bazaars such as Dehqon, Sakhovat, Safariyon, and several shopping centers, will close only on March 20 and will remain open on the other holiday days.

The Navrouz holiday period, taking into account Eid al-Fitr, will begin on March 20 and continue until March 29.

 

Eurasian Development Bank Predicts 8.1% Economic Growth for Tajikistan in 2026

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Analysts from the Eurasian Development Bank (EDB) forecast a real economic growth rate of 8.1% for Tajikistan by the end of 2026, which closely aligns with the government’s target of at least 8.0%. This growth is expected to be driven primarily by strong consumption and investment, supported by income from exports, according to the EDB's March 2026 Macroeconomic Review.

The report notes that continued favorable pricing for Tajikistan's key export goods, particularly gold, will contribute to maintaining high revenue levels from foreign trade. The country's economy is growing rapidly, fueled by strong domestic demand and industrial development.

The EDB's review highlights that in January 2026, Tajikistan's economy continued to demonstrate robust growth, bolstered by strong consumer and investment demand. Significant investments are being directed into the energy sector, particularly as part of state-led development policies, as well as into various industrial sectors such as mining, metallurgy, textiles, and food production.

It is important to note that the EDB's current forecast aligns with the expectations set at the end of the previous year.

 

Aligning expectations, diverging emphases

The EDB’s growth forecast generally coincides with the rhetoric of Tajikistan’s authorities, who have stressed the importance of maintaining high economic growth rates. In his latest address, President Emomali Rahmon emphasized the need to keep GDP growth at no less than 8%, focusing on industrialization, expanding energy capacity, boosting processing industries, and attracting investment.

However, the EDB analysts identify key drivers of growth as the energy sector, manufacturing industry, gold and base metal exports, and remittances from labor migrants. While the EDB's forecast underscores the external factors influencing growth—such as commodity prices and migration flows—the official government documents place more emphasis on internal sources of development and structural transformations.

This divergence does not point to a contradiction but highlights an important point: to achieve its medium-term goals of doubling GDP and reducing poverty, Tajikistan must reduce its economy's vulnerability to external shocks and accelerate the shift from quantitative growth to productivity-driven growth. This includes creating quality jobs, expanding the domestic market, and focusing on sustainable internal economic development. 

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