DUSAHNBE, August 24, Asia-Plus - Experts from the Industries Ministry are concerned over the present situation in the country’s chemical industry.  According to them, for the purpose of developing of this sector it is necessary to provide regular supply of natural gas and electricity to its enterprises.  

Haqnazar Boboyev, a chief specialist with the department for chemical industry and mechanical engineering within the Industries Ministry, has told Asia-Plus that for shortage of natural gas and electric power and lack of new technologies enterprises of the chemical industry are not able to operate in full capacity.  According to him, potential investors show passive interest in investment projects drafted for enhancement of the chemical industry in Tajikistan.  

Boboyev suggests that investors do not want to fund these projects because of unstable natural gas and electricity supplies in the country.   “It is unprofitable for investors to work 10 days and then stand idle for suspension of natural gas supplies,” said Mr. Boboyev, “If stable natural gas supplies are provided enterprises of our chemical industry could produce liquefied chlorine for disinfecting water; at present the country has to purchase it from other countries.”

At present Tajikistan’s chemical industry is represented by seven enterprises: Tajik-Cypriot JV “TajikAzot” (mineral fertilizers production); joint stock company (JSC) “Tajkhimprom”; JSC “Nilufar”; hydrometallurgical plant “Tamokhush” in Isfara; open joint-stock company (OJSC) “Farfor” (china-ware) and the limited liability company “Ravshan” (production of decorative brick).

According to the Asia-Plus interlocutor, some of these enterprises had to change their profile because of complicated financial state.  He has stressed that practically all these enterprises need modernization of their equipment and technologies.   “This requires considerable funds but state now does not have such money,” Haqnazar Boboyev said, expressing hope that with putting into operation new hydropower facilities the country’s industrial sector will start work in full capacity.