Twenty-three cooperation agreements worth a total of $3.1 billion were signed during the “Tajikistan Forward!” Entrepreneurship Forum, which opened Oct. 14 in Dushanbe, covering energy, social services, construction, health care, education and green projects, Sulton Rahimzoda, chairman of the State Committee on Investment and State Property Management said.

During the forum, President of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon met with domestic entrepreneurs, describing them as a driving force of society and highlighting their contribution to the development of the national economy.

Rahimzoda noted that entrepreneurs had built 36,000 facilities across the country in preparation for the 35th anniversary of Tajikistan’s independence, contributing to the country’s development.

“The government of Tajikistan — and in particular, President Emomali Rahmon — consistently recognizes and values the efforts of the country’s conscientious and honorable entrepreneurs,” Rahimzoda said.

In recognition of the independence anniversary, more than 150 entrepreneurs from across the country received state awards. In 2026, Tajikistan also established the “Entrepreneur of the Year” award for the first time, with winners honored in a national competition.

During his meeting with entrepreneurs, Emomali Rahmon discussed government support for business, including licensing, taxation, agriculture and industry, as well as challenges facing the private sector. He acknowledged that despite progress and reforms, some problems remain and called for further measures to address them.

The president issued instructions to the government, executive authorities and other state institutions to implement his initiatives within specified time frames.

The State Committee on Investment and State Property Management was tasked with preparing an action plan based on the meeting and submitting it to the government as soon as possible.

The government and relevant ministries and agencies are expected to work together to improve conditions for entrepreneurship and investment in Tajikistan.