Iran stands among Tajikistan’s top five trade partners in 2025
Iran has joined the list of Tajikistan’s top five trading partners in 2025, as bilateral trade volume rose sharply to $483.9 million from $377.7 million in 2024 — a 28% increase equivalent to $106.2 million, according to Tajik customs data released Monday.
Tajikistan exported $112.8 million worth of goods to Iran last year while importing $371.2 million, resulting in a trade deficit of $258.4 million in favor of Tehran, IRNA quoted the Tajik Customs Committee as reporting.
Non-energy exports from Iran to Tajikistan surged by more than 30% in 2025. Key Iranian exports included petrochemicals, construction materials, and foodstuffs. Among them were bitumen valued at approximately $15.4 million; polymers — polyethylene and polypropylene — worth over $10 million and $11.1 million respectively; and Portland cement clinker totaling around $12.8 million.
Food imports also held a prominent place in Tajikistan’s trade structure. Imports of matzo (a type of flatbread) were estimated at $3.2 million, white sugar at $3.3 million, fresh oranges at $2.6 million, and kiwi fruit at more than $2 million. Additional bitumen used in road construction was imported at an approximate value of $2.5 million.
In contrast, Tajikistan’s exports to Iran consisted mainly of raw materials. Cotton fiber made up the largest portion, exceeding $74 million. Other exports included cotton yarn with a minimum of 85% cotton content, valued at more than $480,000, and aluminum worth approximately $95,000.
The figures reflect a significant expansion in economic relations between the two countries in recent years.
Visa-free trucking deal
Separately, Tajikistan’s Foreign Ministry has recently announced that, starting in March, the two nations will abolish visa requirements for international truck drivers. A Tajik Foreign Ministry official told local media on Monday that the decision was made by mutual agreement between the two governments.
Under the new arrangement, drivers will be allowed to stay in either country for up to 30 days within any 90-day period without a visa.
“This measure facilitates international transport, strengthens trade and economic cooperation, and increases logistics profitability between the two countries,” the ministry told Asia-Plus news agency.
Earlier in 2025, the two countries fully lifted visa requirements for air travel to all cities in both nations. Citizens may now travel by air for stays of up to 30 days within any 90-day period without restriction. However, those entering by land still require visas.