Astana (TDI): The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has greenlit a $50 million grant to assist Tajikistan in implementing key structural reforms aimed at creating green jobs, with a focus on opportunities for women.
This funding, provided through the Asian Development Fund (ADF) as part of the second phase of the Enabling Climate-Responsive Business Environment Improvement Program, is designed to strengthen economic diversification, enhance fiscal transparency, speed up digital transformation, and boost Tajikistan’s competitiveness both regionally and globally.
Key measures under this phase include amendments to the country’s leasing law to expand access to finance for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the development of green taxonomies to guide climate-focused investments, incentives for subsidized financing of environmentally-friendly SMEs, and new legislation supporting organic production. These steps collectively support Tajikistan’s shift toward a greener economy.
The program also aims to improve governance and transparency by enhancing fiscal risk reporting to include climate-related shocks and introducing climate budget tagging to better monitor environmental expenditures. Digital transformation efforts will be accelerated through improved cybersecurity measures, fiscal incentives for tech-driven businesses, and the establishment of an IT park to support the growth of the digital sector.
Read More: Dar Condoles Death of Chinese Nationals in Tajikistan, in Meeting with Chinese Envoy
Reforms are also targeted at strengthening Tajikistan’s export capacity and attracting investment. Initiatives include the creation of a small exporter facilitation center and prioritizing climate-conscious and women-led businesses for export support and market diversification. To further promote sustainable finance, the Ministry of Finance has issued Tajikistan’s first sovereign green bonds.
The program is being implemented in close coordination with development partners, leveraging global best practices to enhance investor confidence, private sector growth, and the overall business climate.
Read More: Pakistan Condemns Drone Attack on Chinese Workers in Tajikistan
Tajikistan has been an ADB member since 1998. Over the years, ADB support has contributed to upgrading critical transport routes, modernizing irrigation and water supply systems, constructing hospitals and schools, and rehabilitating major hydropower plants. It has also helped reconnect the country’s electricity grid to the Central Asian power network and develop power transmission infrastructure.
Between 2021 and 2024, ADB helped around 384,000 people rise out of poverty and created nearly 500,000 jobs.
ADB, established in 1966 and owned by 69 members (50 from Asia-Pacific), remains a key player in fostering inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth, combining innovative finance and strategic partnerships to enhance infrastructure, livelihoods, and environmental protection.
In a related move, ADB also approved a $17 million grant to digitalize livestock farming in Tajikistan.
