At the Turkmenistan-EU Business Forum, Deputy Minister of Finance and Economy of Turkmenistan Babaniyaz Yalakov presented key parameters of the country's investment climate and outlined economic development priorities.

According to the official, the current fiscal regime is aimed at supporting investors: the tax burden has remained stable for the past 20 years, with six main types of taxes applied at fixed rates. To attract private and foreign investment in non-energy sectors, a preferential corporate tax rate of 8% or 2% of income is provided. Property tax is 1%, agricultural enterprises are exempt from most taxes, and the income tax rate is 10%.

Yalakov specifically discussed lending terms: the state provides preferential loans at a 5% annual interest rate for up to 10 years for the purchase of equipment as part of private sector investment projects. For agricultural producers, the rate is 1% per annum for up to 7 years.

The deputy minister also announced the phased creation of free economic zones and free trade zones on the borders with neighboring states. In particular, the opening of a free trade zone with Uzbekistan will increase trade turnover in 2025.

Transport and logistics figured prominently in the presentation. Situated at the intersection of several interregional trade routes, Turkmenistan is developing infrastructure in both the East-West and North-South directions. The country has seven international airports and is part of the international transport corridor linking Europe and Asia, as well as the Lapis Lazuli Corridor connecting Afghanistan and Türkiye. Completion of the third phase of the Ashgabat-Turkmenabat highway is scheduled for this year, providing additional overland connections with Uzbekistan.

Speaking about integration into international trade structures, Yalakov noted that Turkmenistan continues to work toward joining the World Trade Organization, is developing relevant legislation, and is implementing WTO standards. In July 2025, the international ratings company Fitch affirmed Turkmenistan's foreign currency credit rating at "B-" with a positive outlook. Furthermore, the World Bank included the country in its Business Ready rating process.

In conclusion, the Deputy Minister expressed hope that the forum's discussions will help identify concrete steps to improve the investment climate in Turkmenistan.