Description
The Tajikistan Trade Portal is an information website run by the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade of Tajikistan. The website guides local and foreign entrepreneurs through the import, export and transit procedures of the country, thus facilitating more transparent and efficient trade. The user-friendly portal displays all the necessary documents and forms (i.e. licenses, permits, certificates, etc.) that businesses must submit or collect from the relevant regulatory authorities, and provides detailed information on the applicable fees and payments. The portal also provides analytical and statistical information on markets and producers. All information is certified and regularly updated by Tajikistan’s Coordination Committee on Trade Facilitation (CCTF), and the website can be embedded into the websites of other authorities to ensure consistency of information. The portal was developed with the support of the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), and with technical assistance from the International Trade Centre (ITC) and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).
Technology
The Tajikistan Trade Portal is an website through which detailed trade-related information can be accessed, and is suitable for use with both computer and mobile phone browsers. No registration is required. The website offers three primary services: The “Procedures” tab features import and export information and WTO procedures, and includes a comprehensive list of the necessary permits and clearance certificates, as well as details of the mandatory or optional steps to be completed by traders to import or export a specific product. The portal provides access to the relevant laws, agencies, documents and downloadable forms, links to online applications, as well as details of the costs and the time required for each step. The “Producers” tab includes a list of agricultural producers sorted by exported product type, while the “National Producers” tab can be used to access statistical information on Tajikistan trade. The website is connected with the Single Window System through which users can apply online to obtain permits for the import, export or transit of goods. The portal is also connected to the Global Trade Helpdesk, providing access to global trade information, founded by ITC, UNCTAD and the WTO.
Target
The website has several target users, and can be used by all farmers and distributors, regardless of size, who are seeking to export their products or import necessary inputs. The website is also used by private sector companies, especially those specialising in import and export trade, as well as those looking to trade with producers in Tajikistan access the producer directory included on the website. Lastly, research institutions access the website for market analysis and statistical trade information. The website is available in Tajik, Russian and English.
Business model
The website is free to use and can be accessed without cost. The website was developed with the support of the Swiss State for Economic Affairs (SECO) under the Swiss Federal Department of Economic Affairs, Education and Research (EAER).
Impact
The Tajikistan Trade Portal facilitates trade, thereby supporting the economic development of Tajikistan. The portal simplifies the trade process and makes procedures more transparent, and provides entrepreneurs, producers and farmers with the opportunity to export their products internationally. The extended reach of the market thus increases demand and product access. On the other hand, by simplifying the import procedures, farmers and producers gain greater access to input materials. Furthermore, the transparency assured by the portal, aids government institutions in becoming more robust, while farmers gain equal access to information, easing their engagement in trade. Lastly, the website facilitates the analysis of trade data and statistics, thus supporting economic planning and policy development.
Partners
United Nations Development Program (UNDP); Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE); International Trade Centre (ITC); United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD); Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO)
Four Betters
Better life
