Official visit: Tajikistan ambassador vows to remove trade barriers

Traders say security situation in Afghanistan proves major obstacle

PESHAWAR: Ambassador of the Republic of Tajikistan Sherali S Jononov has assured steps will be taken to strengthen trade by removing barriers that hamper the exchange of goods between Pakistan and Tajikistan.

He was speaking to journalists during his visit to Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KPCCI) on Friday.

According to Jononov, the current trade volume between the two countries is US$89 million.



“This should be increased to US$500 million,” he said.

The ambassador said they are working on improving bilateral trade. Jononov said Tajikistan is also trying to develop a more relaxed visa regime and begin direct flights to Pakistan for the benefit of both countries.

On the occasion, traders asked the ambassador to invest in the province, particularly in the field of power generation as K-P has abundant hydropower resources. The ambassador also invited traders to participate in the trade and cultural festival to be held in Tajikistan on April 10.

Unnecessary reliance

Traders told Jononov the security situation in Afghanistan was a major obstacle for bilateral trade with Tajikistan.

“We have to trade through a third country that does not allow goods to be exported and imported directly,” KPCCI former president Zahidullah Shinwari said. He added the current trade volume is extremely low and cannot reach its true potential due to a series of restrictions.

Shinwari said traders have to first export goods to Afghanistan and only after customs duties are paid that they can be exported to Tajikistan.

“This wastes a great deal of time, forcing many importers to sever trade ties with Pakistan,” he added.

Possible resolution

Trader said the issue could be resolved amicably if Tajikistan is included in Afghanistan Pakistan Transit Trade Agreement.

The Tajik officials who were present during the meeting said traders of the chamber should take up the issue directly with Afghanistan.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 13^th,  2016.