---
title: 'CERR Sees Strong Potential to Boost Uzbekistan–Tajikistan Trade by Up to 40%'
url: 'https://thediplomaticinsight.com/cerr-sees-potential-boost-uzbekistan-tajikistan-trade/'
author: 'Sohail Majeed'
date: '2026-03-24T13:59:45+05:00'
categories:
  - 'Trade and Investment'
---

# CERR Sees Strong Potential to Boost Uzbekistan–Tajikistan Trade by Up to 40%

**Tashkent (TDI):** Trade between Uzbekistan and Tajikistan could grow by as much as 30–40%, according to new estimates by the Center for Economic Research and Reforms (CERR), which highlighted untapped opportunities in industrial cooperation between the two neighbors.

The assessment was shared by Khurshed Asadov, Deputy Director of CERR, during an international conference in Tashkent focused on strengthening bilateral and regional cooperation.

Asadov noted that economic ties between the two countries have shown steady growth in recent years, supported by agreements on strategic partnership and allied relations. However, he said the full potential of this cooperation has yet to be realized.

According to CERR data, bilateral trade surged nearly fourfold between 2017 and 2025, rising from $238 million to $912 million. Uzbekistan’s exports increased 3.7 times during this period, while imports from Tajikistan grew more than four times.

Tajikistan is now among Uzbekistan’s key regional trade partners, ranking ninth among importers of Uzbek goods. Despite this progress, experts believe there is still considerable room for expansion.

**Read More: [Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan Agree on Bahri Tojik Water Sharing](https://thediplomaticinsight.com/kazakhstan-tajikistan-uzbekistan-water-sharing/)**

CERR estimates suggest that trade could increase significantly if Tajikistan replaces a portion of its imports from third countries with products manufactured in Uzbekistan.

Geographical proximity, a shared border, and well-established transport links were identified as key advantages for deepening economic ties. Sectors with strong export potential include automobiles, household appliances, textiles, and chemical products.

The report also highlights industrial cooperation as a major area for future growth. One proposed model involves setting up joint processing facilities in border regions, particularly for agricultural products, along with the development of agrologistics centers.

Asadov added that improving transport infrastructure and expanding regional transit routes could further accelerate economic integration across Central Asia.

He emphasized that the current level of allied relations between Uzbekistan and Tajikistan provides a solid foundation for moving toward deeper cooperation, including joint investments and infrastructure development, which could strengthen regional connectivity.

**Read More: [Türkiye Welcomes Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan Joint Border Agreement](https://thediplomaticinsight.com/turkiye-welcomes-kyrgyzstan-tajikistan-uzbekistans-border-agreement/)**

The discussion took place at the conference titled “Uzbekistan – Tajikistan: New Prospects for Alliance and Regional Cooperation,” organized by the International Institute for Central Asia (IICA). The event brought together government officials, diplomats, and experts to explore ways to enhance trade, investment, and broader collaboration between the two countries.