As the relevance of the route, which coincides with the ancient Silk Road, increases, so does the role of its individual links. Tajikistan in these circumstances is not just a transshipment point, but a logistics hub, or crossroads, as Tajik businessmen themselves call it. This factor increases the importance of the country as a partner for business in Switzerland, Germany and Europe as a whole.
The Republic of Tajikistan is a small Central Asian state with a population of just over 10 million people, located in the foothills of the Pamir Mountains.
The country is located at the crossroads of direct routes between China and the booming markets of Central Asian countries. An efficient state apparatus with a small population has created an excellent environment for doing business. Tajikistan's GDP is growing at an accelerating rate. In 2022, it is expected to grow by 7.2 per cent
In addition, the party has significant resource potential. It is worth highlighting the presence of rich water resources and developed agriculture. The latter, according to the World Bank, accounts for about 20% of Tajikistan's GDP and occupies about 75% of the country's labour force. This creates excellent prospects for the development of co-operation in agriculture and food industry between Tajikistan and European countries, where there is a great need for such products.
The recently adopted programme of free economic zones (FEZ) is worth mentioning separately. There are already 4 FEZs operating in the country.
The advantages of this format are obvious. Foreign companies receive favourable taxation, various economic freedoms, developed transport and digital infrastructure. The latter is worth mentioning separately.
According to the International Institute for the Development of the Information Society, Tajikistan's IT development index in 2020 is 4.74, which is one of the highest in the region. This means that Tajikistan can be a comfortable and attractive partner for companies from Switzerland, Germany and other European countries in the field of IT services.
In general, Tajikistan offers interesting opportunities for business development in various sectors, including agriculture, transport, information technology and others. Given the geographical location and resource potential of the country, as well as its IT sector, Tajikistan is becoming an important partner for business representatives from Switzerland, Germany and Europe.