BAKU, Azerbaijan, October 1. The World Bank (WB) intends to construct a $5 million agro-logistics center (ALC) in the Sughd free economic zone (FEZ) in Tajikistan, the source at the bank told Trend.
This initiative is part of the World Bank-funded project "Strengthening the Resilience of the Agriculture Sector" (SRASP) in Tajikistan, which has been underway since 2021. The project aims to enhance agricultural productivity in Tajikistan by increasing farm outputs and adding value.
"The SRASP project is fully funded by the WB, and the ALC in Sughd is expected to cost around $5 million. At the same time, the total budget for SRASP, including the additional financing, is $108 million for a six-year period from June 2021 to June 2027," the source said.
Construction of the ALC in Sughd is expected to begin in early 2025 and take approximately 18 months, with the center anticipated to become operational by the end of 2026. The WB project includes the establishment of five agro-logistics centers in various regions across the country.
"These centers, including one in Sughd, will reduce waste and add value by introducing international standards for post-harvest handling of fruits and vegetables. Through sorting, grading, packaging, storage, and handling improvements, the ALCs will help Tajikistan reach its full potential in accessing high-end export markets globally and regionally," the source added.
Furthermore, it was announced that the World Bank Group is currently preparing its next Country Partnership Framework for Tajikistan, which is expected to be approved by the Board in 2025.
"This framework is being developed through a consultative process that engages a diverse range of stakeholders to ensure various perspectives are incorporated into the strategy," the source said.