Tajikistan Tops World in Dependence on Migrant Remittances

Tajikistan is the world’s most remittance-dependent country, with money sent home by migrant workers accounting for nearly half of its GDP.

About one-third of Tajikistan’s economy relies on citizens working abroad, primarily in Russia, The Caspian Post reports via Tajik media.

In 2024, remittances totaled $5.8 billion, making up 45.4 per cent of national GDP-the highest share globally. For many Tajik families, these funds are a crucial financial lifeline.

However, such heavy reliance also makes the economy vulnerable to external shocks, such as economic downturns in Russia, and poses long-term challenges for families left behind.

Remittances play a key role in Tajikistan’s economy by:

Supporting domestic consumer demand, including utilities, goods, education, and healthcare.

Covering the trade deficit, as foreign currency sent by migrants finances imports.

Boosting tax revenues, as increased economic activity generates income for businesses and the state.

Second on the global list is Tonga, where remittances account for 38.2 per cent of GDP, highlighting the critical role of migrant money in many developing economies.