Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan launch international industrial exhibition in Dushanbe
Presidents attend joint expo amid tentative thaw in ties as both nations seek to revive trade and manufacturing cooperation
DUSHANBE, Tajikistan (MNTV) — Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan have opened a rare joint industrial exhibition in Dushanbe, featuring everything from defense goods and construction materials to pharmaceuticals and helicopters. The event, part of the first International Textile Forum, comes as both countries attempt to rebuild economic ties after years of political tension.
The forum, held at Dushanbe’s EXPO Center, began on July 9 and is backed by the Tajik Ministry of Industry and New Technologies. According to Asia-Plus, the exhibition aims to foster cross-border cooperation between industries and governments, and to attract international attention to regional manufacturing potential.
A day before the official opening, Tajik President Emomali Rahmon and Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov toured the venue together, signaling high-level support for renewed engagement between the two Central Asian neighbors. The visit marked a symbolic moment, given recent years of border clashes and stalled diplomacy.
Kyrgyzstan’s displays include food products, textiles, pharmaceuticals, and one unexpected highlight—a locally assembled two-seater helicopter by the Shumkar Transnational Corporation. Using components imported from Poland, the helicopter can cover 600 kilometers on just 70 liters of fuel, and is designed for short-run operations. Its presence at a textile-focused forum underscores the broader industrial ambitions both governments are trying to project.
Tajikistan’s exhibit features coal, defense products, textile machinery, construction materials, and locally grown fruits and vegetables. The pavilion also includes heavy industry displays, emphasizing the country’s intent to revive domestic production and attract export interest.
While business representatives from both countries promoted their goods, many also used the platform to discuss potential partnerships. Some Kyrgyz visitors posted videos on social media showcasing the event, while others engaged in direct sales at the venue, especially for food and household items.
“This is not just about trade,” said a representative from a Tajik firm. “It’s a chance to re-establish industrial ties, reconnect with Kyrgyz partners, and bring our products to international buyers.”
The forum comes amid a broader regional push to boost manufacturing and reduce reliance on external markets. For both Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan—landlocked, resource-constrained, and dependent on remittances—reviving domestic industries is not only an economic goal but a strategic necessity.
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