Tajikistan’s Customs Service and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) discussed plans to modernize key border crossings and strengthen customs infrastructure during a virtual meeting, according to the Customs Service.

The talks between First Deputy Head of the Customs Service Azim Tursunzoda and ADB representatives focused on implementing reconstruction and modernization projects at border checkpoints as part of broader regional cooperation efforts, Khovar reported.

ADB representatives praised their cooperation with Tajikistan’s Customs Service and said ADB specialist Ari Kalliokoski will oversee further coordination of the reconstruction project at the Fotehobod-Oybek border crossing.

The two sides identified the Fotehobod-Oybek, Sarazm and Navbunyod border crossings as priority infrastructure projects under ADB’s regional program. They noted that growing international freight traffic has increased the need to expand border infrastructure and improve the capacity of customs checkpoints.

ADB representatives said the projects are being implemented under the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) Program, with about $400 million in financing expected to be mobilized over the next eight years.

Tursunzoda said customs authorities in Tajikistan and Uzbekistan hold regular working meetings to improve operations at the Fotehobod-Oybek border crossing and reduce customs clearance times.

The meeting also highlighted ongoing reforms, including the implementation of the One Stop Border Post system, the digitalization of customs procedures and the introduction of the ASYCUDA customs management system.

The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation, advancing border modernization projects and attracting regional financing to strengthen customs infrastructure.