Tajikistan has approved the “Strategy for the development of the communications sector of the Republic of Tajikistan until 2040.” The document defines state policy priorities, long-term goals and mechanisms for the development of telecommunications and postal services in the context of digital transformation. Asia-Plus was informed about this by the Communications Service under the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan, citing a comment by the head of the department, Isfandiyor Sadullo.
Presidential instructions and document development
In December 2025, the President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon, in his Address to the Majlisi Oli, instructed to develop and present to the government a strategy for the development of the communications sector until 2040. Then he emphasized that one of the key tasks remains to provide the population with high-speed Internet and develop telecommunications infrastructure.
A working group was created in the Communications Service to carry out this assignment. The draft document was formed taking into account proposals from relevant departments, after which it was approved and submitted for approval by the government.
The strategy was adopted on the eve of the professional holiday of communication workers – May 7.
Position of Communications Service
The head of the Communications Service, Isfandiyor Sadullo, notes in his comment that the document is a key tool for strategic planning of the industry. According to him, the strategy sets a systematic approach to the development of the communications sector and forms the basis for sustainable growth in the face of digital changes.
He emphasizes that its development took into account the country’s national interests, international obligations, global technological trends, regional risks and socio-economic characteristics of Tajikistan.
The role of strategy and its importance
The appeal states that the strategy defines the priorities of state policy and will become the basis for the development and implementation of state programs in the field of digitalization, communications and postal services. We are also talking about interdepartmental strategic documents, investment projects and digital transformation programs for government bodies, state-owned enterprises and regulatory structures.
The document is considered as the basis for the comprehensive development of the industry, including the introduction of modern technologies and increasing management efficiency.
Main directions of development
The strategy is aimed at improving the standard of living of the population by expanding access and quality of communication services, developing the technological base of the industry and modernizing infrastructure. Separately highlighted are the tasks of strengthening information security and digital sovereignty, as well as the country’s integration into the international digital space.
The document provides for a set of agreed measures – technical, organizational, regulatory and personnel – aimed at the sustainable development of the communications industry.
Two Key Goals
Based on the results of the analysis of the current state of the industry, two key goals were identified. First goal is to provide the population with high-quality, modern and affordable communication services that contribute to the growth of living standards and the development of the digital economy.
Second goal is associated with achieving sustainable development of the industry through the creation of a modern, safe and reliable digital infrastructure.
It is noted that such goals are considered as the most important element of state policy in the field of digital transformation and innovative development, which should strengthen the role of the industry in the socio-economic development of the country.
Access to communications and the digital divide
To achieve the first goal, it is planned to provide access to mobile and fixed-line communications in all settlements with a population of more than 700 people. In parallel, it is planned to develop high-speed networks, including 4G, 5G, FTTH and satellite solutions.
It also provides for the introduction of service quality standards, reducing the tariff burden and ensuring tariff transparency. A separate block is related to the integration of communications with digital services in the fields of education, healthcare, finance and public administration.
Infrastructure, investment and security
As part of the second goal, it is planned to modernize the national communications infrastructure. This includes the development of fiber optic backbones, the creation of a national Internet exchange point (IXP) and the construction of data centers.
It is planned to strengthen information security and improve the regulatory framework. The task of attracting investment, including through public-private partnership mechanisms, is also outlined.
Separately, the strategy includes measures for the training and retraining of personnel in the field of information and communication technologies and the expansion of international cooperation. In the future, this should contribute to the transformation of Tajikistan into a digital transit center in Central Asia.
Implementation stages
The strategy will be implemented in three stages. First stagedesigned for 2026–2030, involves eliminating the digital divide and creating basic infrastructure.
At the second stagein 2031–2035, it is planned to actively introduce innovative technologies and expand digital services.
Third stagecovering 2036–2040, provides for the formation of a modern digital infrastructure integrated into the global digital space.
Financing
The total amount of financing for the first stage will be 6.6 billion somoni. At the same time, about 89.7% of the funds are planned to be raised from the private sector. Another 6.6% will be provided by development partners, 3% will come from special funds and 0.7% from the state budget.
Expected results and implementation
The implementation of the strategy is aimed at expanding and modernizing communication networks, including the introduction of 4G and 5G technologies, as well as the development of fiber optic infrastructure. This should improve the quality and availability of services, including in remote regions, and reduce the gap between the city and rural areas.
In addition, the document creates the basis for the development of e-government, online services and e-commerce, increasing transparency and management efficiency, as well as creating favorable conditions for attracting investment and developing innovation.
The implementation of the strategy will be ensured by the Communications Service under the Government of Tajikistan in cooperation with ministries, local authorities, international partners and the private sector.
