Illegal logging accounts for nearly 40% of forestry violations in Tajikistan

Tajik authorities documented 765 violations of forestry and hunting laws in the first six months of 2026, with illegal logging of trees and shrubs identified as the most prevalent offense. Davlatali Sharifzoda, deputy director of the Forestry Agency, presented these figures, noting that while 719,700 somoni in damages were assessed, only 304,500 somoni, or approximately 42%, has been collected from offenders.

Illegal logging alone accounted for 291 violations, nearly 38% of the total, and caused an estimated 445,600 somoni in damages, representing about 62% of the total assessed damage. Other significant violations included unauthorized livestock grazing (182 cases), illegal collection of plants (148 cases), and illegal hunting (90 cases). Fines for these offenses varied, with illegal hunting causing 111,800 somoni in damage.

In response to the persistent issue of illegal tree logging, Tajikistan's parliament approved amendments in June 2026 to toughen penalties. The Criminal Code now mandates increased fines for illegal logging, destruction, and damage to forests. Depending on the severity, fines can range from 54,600 to over 117,000 somoni, reflecting a significant increase in punitive measures aimed at curbing these environmental offenses.

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The protection and preservation of forests is a sacred duty of forestry workers. During the reporting period, state forest protection officers drew up 765 official reports. The total damage was assessed at 719,700 somoni, of which 304,500 somoni has been collected.