World Bank Grants $100 Million to Boost Tajikistan’s Private Sector

The financing aligns with Tajikistan’s National Development Strategy 2030, targeting structural shifts in telecommunications, civil aviation, and energy. Gael Raballand, World Bank Country Manager, noted that the government has demonstrated a clear commitment to systemic change, ranging from lowering internet costs through improved spectrum allocation to increasing transparency within state-owned enterprises.

Sectoral Reforms and Governance

Beyond digital and aviation improvements, the initiative mandates a overhaul of the national competition framework. Authorities plan to establish a public registry for state aid and enact a new Competition Law to curb preferential treatment. These measures are designed to attract foreign capital by streamlining work permits and strengthening dispute resolution mechanisms.

Energy sector upgrades are equally critical, focusing on tariff reform and infrastructure resilience to better withstand natural hazards. Simultaneously, the program expands social safety nets by refining targeted assistance for vulnerable households. The government has also committed to publishing granular budget data for primary healthcare and education, a move intended to bolster public accountability. Currently, the World Bank maintains a significant footprint in the country, managing 25 projects valued at $1.93 billion, alongside a $69 million investment portfolio overseen by the International Finance Corporation.