Tajikistan Secures €10 Million Loan for Oncology Center Modernization

Tajikistan has taken a significant step towards bolstering its healthcare infrastructure with the signing of a €10 million concessional loan agreement with Austria's Export-Import Bank. This vital funding is earmarked for the comprehensive modernization of the State Institution “Republican Oncological Scientific Center” in Dushanbe, a leading facility in the nation's fight against cancer.

The agreement, finalized on April 21, will enable the center to be equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic technology sourced from Europe. Crucially, it also includes provisions for improving the qualifications of local oncology specialists, ensuring that Tajikistan can leverage the new equipment to its fullest potential. This investment is particularly timely, given the concerning cancer statistics recently released by the Ministry of Health.

Official data reveals that in the first six months of 2025 alone, 2,742 new oncological cases were identified. The figures indicate a higher incidence among women, who constitute 61.7% of new patients, compared to 38.3% for men. The rising trend in breast and stomach cancer is a particular cause for concern, with over 21,000 individuals registered with these conditions by the end of 2024.

This loan represents a critical opportunity for Tajikistan to enhance its capacity to diagnose and treat cancer, offering hope to thousands of citizens. The focus on European technology and specialist training underscores a commitment to international standards and advanced medical practices. The Ministry of Finance's role in securing this concessional loan highlights the government's dedication to prioritizing public health and addressing the growing challenge of oncological diseases within the country.