Tajikistan’s Trade Turnover Rises 12.8% in Q1 2026, Government Urges Export Growth

Dushanbe, The Gulf Observer: Tajikistan recorded a foreign trade turnover of $2.676 billion in the first quarter of 2026, marking a 12.8 percent increase compared to the same period last year, officials said during a government meeting held on April 29, according to media reports.

Despite the growth in trade volume, the country’s trade balance remained negative at $1.648 billion, underscoring ongoing reliance on imports.

The government directed the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade of Tajikistan, the Ministry of Industry and New Technologies of Tajikistan, and the Tajikistan Export Agency to intensify efforts to boost exports, particularly of processed and high-value-added goods, while reducing import dependence.

Addressing the meeting, President Emomali Rahmon stressed the importance of strengthening domestic production of competitive goods, diversifying export products, and expanding access to international markets.

The directives form part of broader efforts aimed at improving the country’s trade balance and enhancing economic resilience.