The Ministry of Transport of Tajikistan has launched a support initiative to boost exports of early onions, one of the country's key seasonal crops. The harvest of early fruits and vegetables is currently underway, with onions among the first to ripen from April to May.
In the Khatlon region, the early domestic onion variety "Jaihun" is nearing the end of its harvest. In Panj district alone, 370 hectares have been dedicated to this crop, with farmers expecting at least 10,000 tonnes of high-quality onions. As in previous years, exports are aimed at neighboring countries, including Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Kazakhstan.
This season, 14,054 hectares across Khatlon have been planted with early onions, with total production estimated at over 473,000 tonnes.
To facilitate logistics, Tajik Railway has prepared 20 empty wagons at key railway stations: Jaloliddini Balkhi, Khatlon, and Shahritus, and allocated space at a transport-logistics center in Levakant for packing operations. The center's location allows direct transfers from trucks to railcars, streamlining shipment.
Additionally, the Tajik Railway is offering discounts of up to 80% on transportation costs to the Keles station in Uzbekistan. Uzbek Railways is also offering up to 60% in freight discounts for onion imports.
As of May 21, 2025, 240 tonnes (four wagons) of early onions had already been exported by rail from the Khatlon region.
Source: khovar.tj