Uzbekistan may introduce reciprocal measures in response to trade barriers impacting its exports to Tajikistan, Deputy Prime Minister Jamshid Khodjaev announced on January 17 during a meeting of entrepreneurs, ambassadors, and government officials in Tashkent.
Khodjaev highlighted challenges faced by Uzbek exporters, particularly in the construction materials sector, despite full compliance with required documentation.
“We have problems related to Tajikistan. We export products to this market, but even when all documents are complete, our goods are cleared under a so-called ‘reserve’ procedure,” he said. “As a result, the price of our products in that market rises by about 15%.”
Meeting participants reported that additional charges imposed at Tajik customs are inflating the cost of Uzbek construction materials and reducing competitiveness. Khodjaev warned that if such restrictions are not lifted, Uzbekistan may respond with similar trade measures.
The issue was also raised by representatives of German construction materials giant Knauf. The company’s commercial director noted that exporters face similar obstacles not only in Tajikistan but also in Turkmenistan and parts of the Caucasus region. In Tajikistan’s case, the “reserve” customs clearance procedure was cited as a key driver of increased costs.
“This is pushing the price of our products in the Tajik market up by as much as 15%,” the representative said.
Entrepreneurs stated that combined logistics and customs costs for shipments to Tajikistan have surged from approximately $2,000 to $12,000. Despite multiple appeals to Tajik authorities, they said no resolution has been achieved, and the elevated costs are undermining export volumes.
“If they impose duties, we can do the same,” Khodjaev stated. “Our customs officials will talk to their counterparts. If this practice continues, we will take response measures. Our ambassador should clearly convey this signal.”
Despite the ongoing friction, trade between Uzbekistan and Tajikistan surpassed $700 million in 2024, nearly three times higher than in previous years. Both governments have indicated they are exploring new logistics corridors and simplified customs procedures to deepen bilateral economic ties.
