TRIPP+ Funding for Central Asia: The U.S. State Department confirmed Konstantin Sokolov, a Russian-born Chicago investor, as chairman of the new TRIPP+ Entrepreneurship Fund, a $200m-plus pot aimed at transport, energy infrastructure, digital tech and critical minerals across Central Asia and the South Caucasus, including Tajikistan. Cement Supply Shock: Tajik industry officials say cement plant prices stayed stable this spring, but hikes hit later through intermediaries and retail; the ministry linked demand growth to construction and independence celebrations, while exports dipped as competition from Uzbekistan rises. Fuel Crunch Spillover: Central Asia’s energy strain deepened as Kyrgyzstan indefinitely banned fuel exports amid Russian supply fears, while regional reporting points to Russia’s refinery disruptions and export limits as the driver—pressuring Tajikistan and neighbors that rely heavily on imported petroleum products. Power for Winter: Tajikistan’s energy minister says preparations for the heating season are underway despite a power deficit, with reservoir conservation and reduced electricity exports to protect hydropower output. Lithium Push: Tajikistan plans to launch a lithium project at the Namadgut deposit in Gorno-Badakhshan within a year, with most equipment already delivered and the deposit also noted for niobium, tantalum and beryllium. Ferrous Metals Link: Uzbekistan is set to import 700,000 tons of iron ore annually from Tajikistan to boost steel output, while also advancing new mining projects. One Health in Practice: Kyrgyzstan hosted a regional “One Health” coordination meeting for pandemic preparedness across Central Asia, aligning health, veterinary and environmental sectors.