Minerals & Industry Planning: Tajikistan says it has identified 259 mineral deposits with industrial reserves, after approving 259 exploration reports and reaching 96.4% implementation of its geological development programme—aimed at boosting strategic industries like metallurgy. Forestry & Sustainability: Using satellite imagery plus field checks, Tajikistan is launching a national forest inventory, while also reporting forest expansion and restoration across thousands of hectares, including new plantings of species such as rosehip, pistachio and walnut. Trade Corridors Through Afghanistan: Iran, Tajikistan and the Taliban agreed on a new road transit corridor through Afghanistan for commercial cargo, with a first pilot shipment expected within a month to test customs and logistics. Regional Connectivity & Investment: The EU and Central Asia are preparing a 2026–2027 high-level agenda on connectivity and security, while the U.S. TRIPP+ enterprise fund is set to back a Central Asia trade corridor with $200m+ for transport, energy infrastructure and critical minerals. Construction & Materials: Tajik cement prices stayed stable after spring hikes, with the ministry saying shortages were pushed down the chain to intermediaries and retail, as domestic demand rose with construction activity. Energy Pressure in the Region: A worsening Central Asian fuel squeeze linked to Russia’s refining disruptions is driving emergency measures across the region, underlining supply risks for Tajikistan’s industrial and logistics operations. Gender & Workforce Policy: Tajikistan is drafting a gender equality strategy for 2027–2036, targeting social norms that limit women’s economic participation and expanding support for women entrepreneurs.