Turkmenistan Investment & Trade Guide 2024: Strategic Insights for APCIC Members

The Asia-Pacific Commerce and Industry Confederation (APCIC) is pleased to present this guide to Turkmenistan, a resource-rich Central Asian nation with significant potential in energy, agriculture, and trade. This report provides insights into Turkmenistan’s economic landscape, key industries, trade policies, taxation framework, and strategic recommendations for APCIC members exploring opportunities in this unique and evolving market.

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1. Panorama económico

Turkmenistan, with a GDP of approximately $60 billion in 2023, is one of the most resource-abundant economies in Central Asia, driven by its vast reserves of natural gas. With its strategic location along the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Turkmenistan is emerging as a regional trade and energy hub.

Indicadores económicos clave:

• Crecimiento del PIB: Estimated at 6.2% in 2023, fueled by natural gas exports and public infrastructure projects.
• Población: Approximately 6.5 million, with a youthful workforce and growing urbanization.
• Tasa de inflación: Estimated at 10.4% in 2023, reflecting global economic pressures and government efforts to stabilize prices.

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2. Industrias clave

Turkmenistan’s economy is dominated by natural gas, agriculture, and infrastructure development, with opportunities for diversification:

• Natural Gas and Energy: The world’s fourth-largest natural gas reserves make Turkmenistan a major exporter to China and neighboring countries.
• Agricultura: Significant production of cotton and wheat, with opportunities in irrigation technology and sustainable farming practices.
• Textiles: Development of value-added processing in cotton-based textiles and apparel production for export markets.
• Infrastructure and Transport: Investments in railways, highways, and logistics under the BRI enhance connectivity.
• Energías renovables: Growing interest in solar and wind projects to complement energy exports.
• Turismo: Potential for eco-tourism and cultural tourism centered around the ancient Silk Road and unique landscapes.

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3. Políticas comerciales

Turkmenistan’s trade policies emphasize resource exports and regional cooperation:

• Belt and Road Initiative (BRI): Collaboration with China enhances infrastructure and trade connectivity.
• Economía orientada a la exportación: Natural gas, cotton, and textiles dominate exports, with increasing efforts to diversify into processed goods.
• Regional Trade: Strong trade ties with China, Russia, Iran, and other Central Asian nations.

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4. Marco fiscal

Turkmenistan offers a competitive tax system to attract foreign investment in key sectors:

• Impuesto de sociedades: Standard rate of 8%, with reductions and exemptions for priority sectors.
• Impuesto sobre el valor añadido (IVA): Standard rate of 15%, applicable to most goods and services.
• Impuesto sobre la renta de las personas físicas: Flat rate of 10%, promoting simplicity and competitiveness.
• Incentivos a la inversión: Tax holidays, customs exemptions, and government support are available for investments in energy, infrastructure, and agriculture.

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5. Clima de inversión

Turkmenistan provides significant opportunities for investors, supported by its natural resources and strategic location:

• Natural Resource Wealth: Vast reserves of natural gas and cotton provide opportunities for industrial development and export growth.
• Ubicación estratégica: Positioned at the crossroads of Central Asia, Turkmenistan facilitates trade between Asia, the Middle East, and Europe.
• Infrastructure Growth: Investments in transport and energy networks under the BRI enhance trade and connectivity.
• Policy Support: The government encourages foreign investment in strategic sectors through regulatory and financial incentives.

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6. Recomendaciones estratégicas

For APCIC members considering investments or trade in Turkmenistan:

1. Invest in Natural Gas and Energy Projects: Explore opportunities in gas exploration, processing, and pipeline infrastructure.
2. Expand in Agriculture and Agri-Food: Partner with local farmers to develop sustainable and high-value agricultural exports.
3. Tap into Textile Manufacturing: Leverage Turkmenistan’s cotton production to establish value-added textile and apparel facilities.
4. Develop Renewable Energy Projects: Invest in solar and wind energy to complement Turkmenistan’s energy mix and export capabilities.
5. Participar en el desarrollo de infraestructuras: Collaborate on railways, highways, and logistics hubs under the BRI framework.
6. Engage in Tourism Growth: Develop eco-tourism and cultural tourism projects to showcase Turkmenistan’s Silk Road heritage and natural beauty.

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Conclusión

Turkmenistan’s vast natural resources, strategic location, and infrastructure investments make it a promising destination for trade and investment. APCIC members are encouraged to use this guide to navigate opportunities in Turkmenistan and establish a presence in this resource-rich and strategically significant market.