TOURISM SECTOR – A MEANS OF ATTRACTING DOMESTIC AND FOREIGN INVESTMENT

The ancient history and rich cultural heritage, unique nature and paradise places of Tajikistan are considered favorable conditions for the development of the tourism industry, and this industry is considered one of the most reliable directions for the development of the national economy.

In this regard, the tourism industry, as a proven means of attracting domestic and foreign investment, a sector that creates new jobs, a source of income for the population and enriches the state budget, plays a significant role in economic and social development.

Taking into account these factors and in order to develop the socio-economic situation of the country’s areas, the tourism industry has been continuously developing, and the Republic of Tajikistan has achieved significant progress in this important strategic direction.

The government of the country has introduced many incentives to ensure good conditions for domestic and foreign investment, and at the first stage created the economic and legal basis for the development of tourist destinations and the creation of the necessary tourism infrastructure. According to the decision of the government of the country, the import of machinery, equipment and construction materials for the construction of tourist infrastructure facilities is exempted from value-added tax and customs duties, and the customs duty for the import of new cars for tourism purposes has been reduced by 50 percent.

The provision of tax and customs privileges has increased the incentive of entrepreneurs, and only on the basis of these privileges have dozens of tourism infrastructure projects been ongoing in recent years in the areas of the construction of tourist complexes, cultural and entertainment parks, modern hotels and resorts, and other tourist facilities. According to the goals of the “National Development Strategy of the Republic of Tajikistan for the period up to 2030”, the presentation of the rich historical and cultural heritage of Tajikistan, unique nature, lakes, rare animals and plants with the aim of developing tourism is considered an important factor in the development and increase in the share of this industry in the country’s total products. According to the adopted documents, in order to further improve the investment atmosphere and encourage domestic entrepreneurs, tourism companies and independent guides are also exempted from profit tax for the first five years of operation. Currently, according to statistics, there are 245 tourism companies operating in the country that enjoy these benefits.

All these benefits provided by the state and government to tourism entities are a sign of special attention and are aimed at the development of this sector. Tourism companies need to make efforts to further revitalize their work and present the country’s opportunities and potential, and attract more tourists to Tajikistan.

Bobiev Shohanshoh