India and Tajikistan have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral economic and trade ties during the 12th Meeting of the India-Tajikistan Joint Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation, held via video conference on Thursday.
Delivering the opening remarks, Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal highlighted the importance of translating the strong political goodwill and historic friendship between the two countries into tangible economic outcomes. He noted that the global trade, supply chain and technology landscape has undergone significant changes, making it essential for both nations to deepen cooperation in trade, investment, market access, regulatory coordination and business engagement.
The meeting was co-chaired by Mohit Yadav, Joint Secretary in the Department of Commerce, Government of India, and Nuriddinzoda Ahliddin Nuriddin, Deputy Minister of Economic Development and Trade of Tajikistan. Senior officials from various ministries and government agencies of both countries also participated in the discussions.
Held in a cordial and constructive atmosphere, the meeting reflected the long-standing friendship, civilizational links and mutual trust shared by India and Tajikistan. Both sides reviewed progress made since the previous session and explored new avenues for expanding bilateral economic cooperation.
India showcased its robust economic performance, highlighting sustained growth and export achievements. The Indian side noted that the country recorded a GDP growth rate of 7.7 percent during FY 2025-26 and 7.8 percent in the fourth quarter of the fiscal year. India’s total exports were estimated at USD 863 billion during the same period, including merchandise exports worth USD 442 billion and services exports valued at USD 421 billion.
The discussions also focused on the growing momentum in bilateral trade. India’s exports to Tajikistan were estimated at USD 58.12 million in 2025-26, registering a growth of over 27 percent compared to the previous year. Pharmaceutical products, particularly drug formulations and biologicals, emerged as the leading export category. Other key exports included pulses, dairy-related industrial machinery, medical and scientific instruments, tea, Ayurvedic and herbal products, and refrigeration equipment.
Both countries reviewed regulatory and market access issues impacting bilateral trade and agreed to enhance coordination among relevant authorities, trade organizations and business chambers. Regular consultations were identified as an effective mechanism for resolving operational challenges faced by exporters and importers.
Healthcare and pharmaceuticals emerged as a major area of cooperation. India emphasized the global reputation of its pharmaceutical industry for producing high-quality and affordable medicines. Both sides agreed to strengthen regulatory dialogue, accelerate registration processes and encourage greater interaction between pharmaceutical companies and regulatory agencies.
Agriculture and food processing were also identified as promising sectors for collaboration. The two countries discussed opportunities in rice, sugar, processed foods, pulses, meat products, agricultural technology and food safety standards. India expressed its readiness to support mutually beneficial agricultural trade that contributes to food security and consumer welfare.
Services trade was recognized as another key pillar of the bilateral relationship. India’s services exports to Tajikistan reached USD 123.89 million in 2024, while Tajikistan’s services exports to India stood at USD 37.56 million. Both nations agreed to explore greater cooperation in information technology, digital services, healthcare, education, tourism, professional services, innovation, startups and skill development.
In addition, the Joint Commission examined opportunities for collaboration in energy, hydropower, renewable energy, mining, critical minerals, textiles, leather, light industries, science and technology, digital economy, transport, logistics, banking and finance. Both sides acknowledged that these sectors hold substantial potential for expanding industrial and economic cooperation.
The two countries agreed to continue discussions through virtual meetings to address pending issues and ensure effective implementation of the decisions taken during the session. They also emphasized the importance of sustained engagement among government agencies, regulators, trade promotion bodies and private sector stakeholders.
The meeting concluded with the signing of the Protocol of the 12th Session, reaffirming the shared commitment of India and Tajikistan to strengthening trade, investment and economic cooperation for mutual growth and prosperity.
Also Read: USTR Proposes Additional Tariffs on Imports from 60 Economies, India Engages in Consultations
Author: Shivam
Shivam Dwivedi is a senior journalist with extensive experience in research-driven journalism, policy communication, and multi-platform storytelling. His areas of interest include international relations, defence, science & technology, education, urban development, agriculture, spirituality, and environmental sustainability. His work focuses on in-depth analysis, public discourse, and impactful narratives across governance and development sectors, with a strong commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Contact: [email protected]
