DUSHANBE, February 17, Asia-Plus  -- Labor migrants remain a critical component in the economy of Tajikistan and labor migrants’ remittances keep many struggling families in the country above the poverty line.

Unofficially reported remittances in January 2013 totaled 178.8 million U.S. dollars, 8% higher than for the same period in 2012, according to the monthly report for February 2013, Monitoring and Early Warning in Tajikistan .

Remittances are expected to increase as seasonal labor migration increases.

The Migration Service under the Government of Tajikistan reports that in January, 2013 a total of 68,675 persons left Tajikistan and 60,143 persons returned.

Tajik seasonal workers travel abroad primarily to Russia but also to neighboring Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, according to the Tajik migration service agency.

The aim of the Tajikistan Monthly Monitoring and Early Warning (MEW) Reports is to provide regular information and succinct analysis on the evolution of natural, economic, food-related, energy-related and other risk factors in Tajikistan.  Data and information in this report are provided by different sources and compiled by the MEW Center Group of Experts from the Government organizations and agencies, and UN agencies active in Tajikistan.