The discussions took place during the 12th Meeting of the India-Tajikistan Joint Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technical Cooperation, held via video conference.
In his opening remarks, Commerce Secretary Rajesh Agrawal noted that the meeting was being held at a time when the global trade, supply chain and technology landscape had undergone significant changes. He underlined the need to translate the strong political goodwill and historical ties between the two countries into stronger economic outcomes through greater focus on trade, investment, market access, regulatory cooperation and business engagement.
Reviewing progress since the 11th session of the Joint Commission, both sides emphasised the importance of regular engagement to address operational issues faced by exporters and importers, facilitate smoother trade flows and create favourable conditions for new business projects.
The meeting comes ahead of Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh’s official visit to Tajikistan on June 12-13 to participate in the SCO Conference on “Central Asia – The Core of SCO: A Space of Peace and Joint Development”. The event is being hosted by Tajikistan, the current Chair of the SCO Heads of Government Council.
In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the conference theme aligns with India’s priorities within the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, particularly in the areas of youth, culture and civilisation. The ministry added that India views Central Asia as its extended neighbourhood and an important partner in promoting regional connectivity, security and prosperity. Singh is also scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with counterparts from SCO member states during the conference.
India’s exports to Tajikistan are estimated at $58.12 million in FY26, up 27.23% from the previous year.
Drug formulations and biologicals accounted for the largest share of India’s exports to Tajikistan during the period, followed by pulses, dairy and food-processing machinery, medical and scientific instruments, tea, Ayush and herbal products, and refrigeration equipment.
Pharmaceuticals and healthcare were identified as key areas of cooperation, with both sides highlighting the role of Indian medicines in improving access to affordable, high-quality healthcare in Tajikistan. Agriculture, food products and food safety were also discussed as promising areas for deeper collaboration.
Services trade was identified as another important pillar of the bilateral economic relationship. India’s services exports to Tajikistan stood at $123.89 million in 2024, while Tajikistan’s services exports to India were valued at $37.56 million.
Both countries agreed to explore greater cooperation in information technology, digital services, healthcare, education, tourism, professional services, start-ups, innovation and skill development.
The Joint Commission also discussed opportunities for collaboration in energy, hydropower, renewable energy, mining and critical minerals, science and technology, investment, textiles and leather, light industries, the digital economy, transport, logistics, banking and finance.
