The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) sponsored the fourth International Khatlon Invest and Bokhtar Food Forum–2024 from October 17 to 18 in Tajikistan’s Khatlon region. Co-hosted by the Khatlon Regional Government and the Export Development Agency of Tajikistan, and other international partners, this event enhanced regional trade and connectivity across Central Asia and beyond.
This year’s forum attracted more than 400 participants, including horticulture producers from the Khatlon region, government officials, and buyers from Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Turkiye, the UK, and Azerbaijan to facilitate trade in Tajik agricultural exports. The Khatlon Invest and Bokhtar Food Forum is vital for fostering market connections, encouraging public-private dialogue, and attracting investments to the country.
In his welcoming remarks, Kevin Dean, USAID Tajikistan Acting Mission Director emphasized that “Tajikistan offers diverse investment opportunities in sectors such as energy, agriculture, exports, and tourism, all supported by its rich natural resources and cultural heritage. USAID is committed to improving regional competitiveness, dismantling cross-border trade barriers, and fostering a diverse and competitive private sector.”
Over the past three years, Bokhtar Food forums have significantly benefited Tajik farmers and traders, resulting in contracts worth millions for horticulture producers. In 2021, the forum facilitated $3.1 million in contracts, followed by $6.4 million in 2022 and $6 million in 2023, underscoring its essential role in international trade.
