Tajikistan s large-scale fiber optic cable

Tajikistan is expanding its fiber-optic network domestically and establishing a direct connection to China to improve internet speed, reduce costs, and enhance connectivity.

Domestic Fiber-Optic Expansion

In 2025, Tajiktelecom laid 536 kilometers of new fiber-optic lines, expanding the national network to 3,459 kilometers. This represents the largest network expansion in recent years, improving internet access in cities, remote areas, and public spaces such as airports and parks. The project also included modernizing the main transport network carrying internet traffic, installing new equipment to increase connection speed and reliability, and developing the TJ-IX national traffic exchange point for efficient data exchange between operators .

Connection to China

Tajikistan is constructing a fiber-optic line connecting its network directly to China, which will increase bandwidth, reduce internet costs, and enable mobile operators to offer cheaper services. So far, 108 kilometers of cable have been laid in Shamsiddin Shokhin and Darvaz districts, with plans to extend the 48-layer optical cable from Dushanbe to Khorog and then to the Chinese border. This project is part of a high-speed trunk transport network along the Dushanbe-Kulob-Darvoz-Rushon-Khorog-Kulma route, enhancing international connectivity and transit potential .

Benefits and Implications

The fiber-optic expansion is expected to:

• Improve internet quality and speed across Tajikistan, especially in remote regions .
• Reduce internet costs for residents and mobile users .
• Increase international connectivity, linking Tajikistan to global networks via China .
• Enhance the country's transit potential for telecommunications, reducing isolation .

Considerations

Experts have noted potential concerns regarding Chinese internet restrictions being imported into Tajikistan through this connection. While the project promises technical and economic benefits, regulatory and content control implications may arise as the network integrates with China's telecommunications systems . Overall, Tajikistan's fiber-optic initiatives represent a significant step toward modernizing its digital infrastructure, improving accessibility, and strengthening international connectivity.