Tajikistan Boosts Fish Production in Six Months

Tajikistan caught more than 2,000 tons of fish in the first six months of 2025, a 12 per cent increase compared to the same period last year.

The total value of fish products reached 61.2 million somoni, marking a 19.6 per cent year-on-year rise, The Caspian Post reports via Tajik media.

Khatlon Region, home to most of the country’s fish farms, contributed the largest share with around 1,100 tons. Sughd Region produced 481 tons, while Vahdat accounted for about 426 tons.

Silver carp led production with 690 tons, followed by trout (419 tons), white amur (236 tons), and carp (219 tons). Other species made up 447 tons of the total catch.

Officials attribute the growth to the expansion of fish farms and the adoption of new aquaculture technologies. More than 300 fish farms are now operating nationwide.

However, challenges remain. Reservoir productivity has declined by nearly half over the past three decades due to shortages of feed, outdated equipment, and deteriorating water bodies. Experts say improvements in pond management and infrastructure could raise output by 20-30 per cent.

Despite the obstacles, Tajikistan projects continued growth in the sector, forecasting 6,600 tons of fish in 2026, 7,200 tons in 2027, and 7,800 tons in 2028. The country currently relies on 1,300 natural lakes, 8 reservoirs, and 385 fish farms covering nearly 76,000 hectares to sustain its aquaculture industry.