The government of Tajikistan has set an ambitious but realistic goal to increase cotton processing from the current 30% to a full 100% of locally grown cotton, with the objective of boosting textile exports tenfold. This strategic vision was unveiled by Prime Minister Kokhir Rasulzoda at the opening of the country’s first International Textile Forum in Dushanbe, attended by delegations from more than 50 countries.
Prime Minister Rasulzoda highlighted that while only about 30% of grown cotton is currently processed domestically, the aim is to develop a closed production cycle transforming raw cotton into finished textile goods inside the country. This shift will lead to significant opportunities for import substitution, export growth, and strengthening Tajikistan’s competitive position in the global marketplace.
“Already today, Tajik textile products are exported to more than 15 countries, and the potential to expand this list is considerable,” Rasulzoda said, underlining that the plan would create thousands of new jobs and support sustainable economic growth.
Minister of Industry and New Technologies Sherali Kabir pointed out that the development of the cotton-textile sector aligns with the national strategy aimed at accelerated industrialization and doubling industrial output over the next five years. He noted that the textile industry is increasingly becoming an innovation hub, with exports last year reaching around $300 million. With increased investments and creation of vertically integrated production chains, Kabir estimates this figure could grow to $3 billion.
New industrial clusters are emerging to support a full-cycle textile industry — from cotton cultivation to finished products manufacturing. The government is also rolling out favorable conditions for foreign investors, including tax and customs incentives, development of industrial parks with infrastructure, and support measures targeted at small and medium-sized enterprises.
The Textile Industry Development Strategy, adopted two years ago, forecasts employing over 600,000 people in this sector and achieving complete cotton processing domestically, supporting Tajikistan’s goal of reducing reliance on raw material exports in favor of value-added finished goods.
The International Textile Forum held from July 8 to 10 serves as a platform to showcase Tajikistan’s textile sector potential, promote export capabilities, and attract investments to one of the country’s key economic areas.
Why this matters for international business in textiles and construction
The strategic push by Tajikistan toward full domestic processing of cotton transforms the country into a promising hub for textile manufacturing, presenting multiple openings for international investors, manufacturers, and trade partners. This modernization of the textile industry could unlock expanded supply chains for fabrics, upholstery, and industrial textiles domestically produced with reduced import dependence.
Moreover, Tajikistan’s approach to fostering industrial clusters and offering incentives to foreign investors creates a supportive framework for joint ventures and direct investments. The government’s emphasis on sustainable growth and innovation suggests opportunities for technology transfer and introduction of advanced manufacturing solutions.
In essence, international companies looking to expand in Central Asia would find Tajikistan’s textile sector an emerging arena with growing export connections and evolving capabilities. These developments hint at improved regional logistics, enhanced manufacturing ecosystems, and a market increasingly integrated into global value chains, all critical factors for businesses involved in textile-related manufacturing, design, and trade.
