EBRD approves new country strategy for Tajikistan

• EBRD approves a new five-year country strategy for Tajikistan
• Strategic focus will be on strengthening private-sector competitiveness and governance
• Other priorities include investment in sustainable energy, transport and municipal infrastructure

The Board of Directors of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has approved a new strategy for Tajikistan, setting out the Bank's priorities in the country to 2030. The new strategy reflects the EBRD's commitment to supporting Tajikistan's economic transformation through a comprehensive approach that combines financial investment with policy dialogue and technical assistance.

In 2025-30, the EBRD will pursue the following overarching strategic priorities in Tajikistan:

• Strengthening competitiveness and governance by fostering a larger, more inclusive private sector and improving public institutions. The Bank will focus on:

Strengthening competitiveness and increasing access to finance – the EBRD will work to enhance the competitiveness of local firms and expand access to financial services, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises. This work is expected to support private sector-led growth, digitalisation and economic diversification.

Increasing gender equality and inclusive economic participation – the Bank will promote greater financial inclusion by supporting initiatives that enhance opportunities for women, youth and other groups of the population to improve their engagement in the economy. This includes improving access to finance, skills development and employment opportunities.

Improving governance and the business environment – the EBRD will support reforms aimed at strengthening public institutions and will help to improve the business environment and digital agility working closely with the government to enhance transparency, efficiency and the regulatory framework for the development of Tajikistan’s private sector.

• Enhancing green and sustainable energy and transport networks and municipal service delivery. This encompasses three key areas:

Increasing renewable energy, resource and energy efficiency, and climate resilience – the Bank will invest in renewable energy projects and promote energy-efficiency measures in various sectors. It will help Tajikistan strengthen its climate resilience through targeted investments and advisory support, contributing to the country's green transition and climate goals.

Improving transport and digital connectivity – the EBRD will finance investments in transport infrastructure to enhance regional and domestic connectivity, supporting trade and economic integration. It will also promote digital infrastructure development to modernise the economy and improve service delivery.

Boosting the sustainability of urban services – the Bank will work with municipalities across Tajikistan to improve the delivery and sustainability of urban services, including water supply and urban transport. These investments will enhance quality of life while promoting environmental sustainability and efficient resource use.

In its latest Regional Economic Prospects report, the Bank forecasts Tajikistan’s economy to grow by 7 per cent in 2025 and 5.7 per cent in 2026 on the back of ongoing investments in priority infrastructure. The EBRD cites Tajikistan’s successful cooperation with international organisations – such as the approval of the World Bank’s budget support programme and the ongoing International Monetary Fund Policy Coordination Instrument programme – as an important factor in the outlook for the country’s medium-term growth.

To date, the EBRD has invested more than €1 billion in Tajikistan through 185 projects.