Tajikistan upgrades Fotehobod border crossing to boost trade with Uzbekistan

Tajikistan is modernizing the Fotehobod border crossing point on its border with Uzbekistan, introducing new infrastructure and digital customs technologies to streamline trade and improve border procedures.

The latest upgrades feature a new customs inspection hangar and modern X-ray scanning equipment. These enhancements are part of a collaboration between Tajikistan's Customs Service and the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) under the Global Programme on Passenger and Cargo Control. The new facility aims to improve cargo inspection, enhance working conditions for personnel, and strengthen the operational capacity of this busy crossing.

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The participants were briefed on the role of the checkpoint in facilitating legal trade while preventing the illegal movement of goods, narcotics, and other prohibited items across the state border.

Officials stated that the introduction of new digital management systems and scanning technologies is expected to accelerate customs clearance, improve inspection quality, and bolster economic security. The X-ray equipment was funded by the state budget with support from the Agency for Innovations and Digital Technologies under the President of Tajikistan.

In parallel, customs representatives from Tajikistan and Uzbekistan held a working-group meeting to discuss expanding the checkpoint's capacity, simplifying border-crossing procedures, and digitalizing customs administration. They also addressed challenges and explored mechanisms for more efficient resolution. A key focus was the possibility of implementing joint customs control based on the "one-stop" principle to expedite procedures and reduce formalities.

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the introduction of new digital management systems and scanning technologies is expected to accelerate customs clearance, improve inspection quality, and strengthen economic security.