State customs service of Turkmenistan

Customs Services of Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan Hold Bilateral Online Meeting

Thu, 30 Jul 2026 17:43:03 +0500

On July 30, 2026, a working meeting was held via videoconference between representatives of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan and the State Customs Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan. The main topic of discussion was the exchange of experience on the application of the preferential regime in the customs clearance of imported goods within the framework of the signed bilateral Agreement on organizing the exchange of preliminary information.

This event became a practical implementation of the agreements reached earlier during the official visit in June 2026, when the parties concretely agreed upon and signed the text of the Agreement and the specialized Protocol on cooperation. The strengthening of the legal framework thanks to the signed documents makes it possible to elevate interagency interaction to a qualitatively new level.

During the constructive dialogue, the participants reviewed in detail the issues of optimizing electronic data exchange procedures and accelerating trade turnover. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their mutual readiness for further close partnership and the implementation of joint initiatives aimed at increasing the efficiency of customs administration.

Interagency Training and Methodological Seminar Held at the Training Center

Thu, 30 Jul 2026 17:35:16 +0500

On July 29, 2026, an interagency training and methodological seminar titled "Submission of Preliminary Information on Goods and Maintenance of Foreign Trade Customs Statistics" was held at the Training Center under the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan. The event was attended by representatives of the State Customs Service, relevant state departments, as well as enterprises and organizations engaged in foreign economic activity.

During the seminar, the important role of timely and complete submission of preliminary information on goods in accelerating customs procedures, effective risk management, and improving control over goods moving across the border was emphasized. Participants also discussed in detail modern digital systems introduced into the customs sphere, their practical application, and their role in enhancing the efficiency of control.

In addition, practical explanations regarding methods for ensuring data reliability in customs declarations were provided to the participants. The parties specially noted the ongoing work on studying advanced international practices in implementing the "Smart Customs" concept and introducing artificial intelligence technologies.

The outcomes of the interagency seminar will serve as a significant contribution to the further improvement of customs procedures, the effective use of digital technologies, and the enhancement of the reliability of foreign trade customs statistics.

Large-scale reconstruction of the "Sarahs Autoyollary" customs post completed

Tue, 28 Jul 2026 13:12:56 +0500

In Turkmenistan, the phased modernization of border customs posts continues. As part of the next stage, the upgrade of the "Sarahs Autoyollary" customs post, located along key international transport corridors on the Turkmenistan-Iran border, has been completed.

During the construction work, buildings and structures on the territory of the customs post were renovated, and conditions were created to help accelerate vehicle throughput. In addition, a digital management system for monitoring and accounting for the movement of vehicles and goods has been introduced at the post. This ensures reliable customs control over cars and cargo passing through the post, while also guaranteeing their fast crossing of the customs border.

Being located at the intersection of several international transport corridors, the "Sarahs Autoyollary" customs post plays a vital role in the transit of transport and goods.

This project was implemented as part of Turkmenistan's phased modernization of border crossing points, aimed at boosting the country's transit potential. As a reminder, since the beginning of this year, the "Garabogaz" and "Artyk" customs posts have also been successfully put into operation after comprehensive renovation.

The electronic TIR (eTIR) system has been introduced in Turkmenistan

Sat, 25 Jul 2026 11:09:12 +0500

An exchange of information has been established between the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan and the State Customs Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan regarding road transport vehicles carrying out transit cargo transportations across the Caspian Sea using the digital eTIR system.

In this direction, with the organizational support of the International Road Transport Union (IRU), a successful test data exchange was carried out for cargo transportations sent from the Republic of Azerbaijan in transit through Turkmenistan to Uzbekistan, as well as those dispatched from Turkmenistan in transit through Azerbaijan to the Republic of Turkey.

This initiative has become one of the first projects within which a direct exchange of information regarding transit road transportations has been established between the customs agencies of the two states located along the international transport corridor connecting Europe with Central Asia.

The eTIR system provides for the electronic exchange of customs data in real time, reduces the volume of paper documentation and minimizes risks, accelerates the implementation of customs procedures, reduces costs, and simplifies trade and customs operations. This circumstance significantly increases the appeal and importance of transit corridors passing through the territory of our country in international cargo transportation.

The implementation of the eTIR system was carried out within the framework of the project "Development of regional interconnectivity through the digitalization of customs affairs and the creation of a 'Smart' Customs."

Turkmenistan Hosts Digitalization Events for the eTIR System with Participation of International Experts

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 10:56:34 +0500

On 20 July 2026, a five-day programme of events was launched at the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan, dedicated to coordination matters and the provision of technical support for the implementation of the first transport operations using the international digital eTIR system.

Within the framework of the programme, an extended technical meeting was held focusing on the practical aspects of implementing the eTIR system in Turkmenistan, as well as on the organisation of the first pilot transport along the Azerbaijan–Turkmenistan–Uzbekistan route. The meeting brought together representatives of the customs administrations of Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan, as well as international organisations, including the International Road Transport Union (IRU), the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), and the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).

During the meeting, it was noted that Turkmenistan is among the first countries in the region to introduce the eTIR system for international transit road transport operations. The importance of this step for enhancing the attractiveness of transit transport corridors passing through the country was emphasised.

The practical phase of the events will continue from 22 to 24 July at the Turkmenbashi International Seaport. With the support of UNECE, pilot transport operations using the eTIR system will be conducted, and training sessions will be delivered by IRU expert Vakhtang Zaranjia.

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 12:20:05 +0500

In Ashgabat, the development of Turkmen-Azerbaijani customs cooperation was discussed

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 19:19:33 +0500

On 7 July 2026, a bilateral meeting was held in the administrative building of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan between the Deputy Chairman of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan and the Deputy Chairman of the State Customs Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Natig Shirinov.

The meeting took place within the framework of the 9th session of the Turkmen-Azerbaijani Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation, held in Ashgabat.

The parties noted that cooperation between the customs authorities has reached a new level following the state visit of the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, to Azerbaijan. As practical outcomes, the signing of documents on advance information exchange and customs statistics was highlighted.

Furthermore, within the framework of the “Smart Customs” concept, the parties discussed the prospects for developing a joint Roadmap aimed at synchronizing digital systems, including the implementation of automated risk analysis mechanisms and the development of the “Single Window” system. Particular attention was also paid to issues related to joining the international e-TIR project, which will facilitate faster cargo clearance, including in the ports of Turkmenbashi and Baku.

In conclusion, the parties reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening cooperation and enhancing the transit potential of the region.

UNODC Evaluation Mission: New Areas of Cooperation with the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan Identified

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 19:06:45 +0500

On 7 July 2026, specialists of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan met with international expert Jim Newkirk, engaged by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) within the framework of the Evaluation Field Mission.

During the meeting, the parties discussed the current state of cooperation with UNODC and highlighted the achievements made through joint activities, including the work of Port Control Groups, joint trainings and capacity-building activities, high-level meetings, exchange visits, joint border training exercises, as well as programmes aimed at improving the language skills of specialists.

Particular attention was paid to the prospects for further cooperation with UNODC over the next five years and the identification of new areas of cooperation aimed at strengthening the institutional capacity of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan.

Turkmenistan Increases Cross-Border Cargo Turnover

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 17:25:24 +0500

The volume of cross-border transportation through the territory of Turkmenistan demonstrates a steady positive trend. Thanks to the step-by-step modernization of customs infrastructure and the introduction of digital technologies, the country is strengthening its position as an important transport and logistics hub in the region.

Over the first 6 months of the current year, more than 10.5 million tons of cargo were processed through border checkpoints of the State Border, which is 10% higher compared to the same period last year. The volume of foreign trade transportation, including exports and imports of goods, increased by 6%.

A particularly significant increase has been observed in transit transportation. During the reporting period, more than 3.5 million tons of cargo were transported in transit through the territory of the country, which is 15% more than in the previous year. The cargo was delivered to 94 countries, confirming the expansion of Turkmenistan’s transit cargo geography.

Modern customs checkpoints, equipped with advanced inspection and scanning systems, ensure digital control at all stages of cargo movement. This makes it possible to significantly accelerate customs procedures, increase border throughput capacity, and reduce the time required for processing vehicles at the border.

Turkmenistan and the World Customs Organization Discuss Further Development of Strategic Cooperation in Brussels

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 18:49:08 +0500

On 26 June 2026, on the margins of the sessions of the Council of the World Customs Organization (WCO) held in Brussels, a meeting took place between the Chairman of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan and the Secretary General of the WCO. The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Turkmenistan to the Kingdom of Belgium also participated in the meeting.

During the discussions, the parties expressed satisfaction with the steady progress of bilateral cooperation, noting that over the past year their interaction has reached a qualitatively new level. The Turkmen side conveyed its appreciation to the WCO leadership for their comprehensive support in organizing and holding in Ashgabat an international conference dedicated to the activities of training centres.

Particular attention during the meeting was paid to the training of highly qualified personnel, as well as to the further development of the WCO Regional Training Centre in Turkmenistan. The parties highlighted the tangible results of joint educational programmes, under which Turkmen specialists successfully completed long-term training in 2025–2026 in the areas of risk management, time release studies, as well as specialized courses in data analytics and the digitalization of customs processes.

In order to further enhance the professional capacity of the customs service personnel of Turkmenistan, interest was confirmed in the participation of representatives of the Service in the WCO Career Development Programme for 2026-2027 school year.

Following the meeting, the parties reaffirmed their mutual commitment to further strengthening strategic partnership, implementing advanced digital solutions, and consistently integrating international standards into the national customs system.

The Delegation of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan Participates in the 147th/148th Sessions of the World Customs Organization Council in Brussels

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 16:15:59 +0500

June 25, 2026, the 147th and 148th Sessions of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Council commenced at the WCO Headquarters in Brussels, Belgium. The delegation of Turkmenistan, led by the Chairman of the State Customs Service, is participating in the meetings of the Organization's highest governing body.

The sessions will run from June 25 to June 27, 2026, in an in-person format. The event has brought together Directors General and representatives of Member Customs administrations from around the world to discuss key vectors for the development of the global customs system. The draft Agenda for the current sessions covers a wide range of strategic matters.

The participation of the delegation of Turkmenistan in this high-level forum underscores the country's commitment to further integration into the international customs system, the modernization of border infrastructure in line with world standards, and the strengthening of trade and economic ties within the WCO platform.

A bilateral meeting between the Chairman of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan and the WCO Secretary General, Ian Saunders, holds a special place in the program of the Turkmen delegation's visit. During the meeting, the parties plan to discuss key areas of cooperation, including the digitalization of customs procedures, the implementation of advanced WCO standards, and customs personnel capacity building.

Meeting of Representatives of the Customs Services of Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea Held

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 16:04:07 +0500

On June 25, 2026, a working meeting was held via videoconference between representatives of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan and the Customs Service of the Republic of Korea.

The parties discussed a draft bilateral Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the field of border protection of intellectual property rights. The aforementioned document aims to establish an effective and mutually beneficial legal framework for cooperation, focused on ensuring the legality of cross-border movement of goods, as well as protecting the economic interests and rights of consumers in both countries.

It was noted that today's negotiations build upon a positive history of bilateral cooperation. The foundation for this cooperation was laid during the initial leadership-level meeting held in the city of Busan in 2018, as well as subsequent specialized training events in 2019 dedicated to risk management and customs valuation issues.

During the talks, the parties confirmed their readiness to finalize the text of the discussed Memorandum as soon as possible, with the aim of signing it during the Central Asia – Republic of Korea Summit, scheduled to be held in Seoul in September of this year.

On the Meeting between the Heads of the Customs Authorities of Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan in Baku

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 18:54:54 +0500

On 22 June 2026, a meeting was held in Baku between the heads of the customs authorities of Turkmenistan and the Republic of Azerbaijan. The meeting took place within the framework of the state visit of the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, to the Republic of Azerbaijan. The discussions focused on practical cooperation and the further development of bilateral relations.

During the negotiations, the parties emphasized that the implementation of automated exchange of advance information on goods would significantly accelerate customs clearance procedures, enhance transparency of accounting, and optimize transit operations, including within the framework of the international e-TIR project.

Particular attention was paid to digitalization and the transition to the “Smart Customs” model, including the integration of information systems, the development of cooperation between the ports of Turkmenbashi and Baku, as well as capacity building. Following the meeting, the parties confirmed their readiness to further strengthen partnership and to develop a joint Roadmap.

Customs Authorities of Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan Sign Key Agreements in Baku

Tue, 23 Jun 2026 15:52:22 +0500

On 22 June 2026, within the framework of the state visit of the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov, to the Republic of Azerbaijan, a ceremonial signing of a package of bilateral documents took place following high-level negotiations. The documents are aimed at further strengthening cooperation between the two countries.

Among the signed documents, particular importance is attached to the Technical Conditions for the Exchange of Advance Information on Goods, as well as the Protocol on Cooperation in the Field of Customs Statistics of Mutual Trade. These agreements establish a solid foundation for deepening interaction between the customs authorities of Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan.

The implementation of the Technical Conditions will enable the establishment of an efficient and systematic mechanism for the exchange of advance information on goods, which will contribute to the acceleration of customs procedures, reduction of cargo clearance time, and enhancement of transparency in foreign trade operations.

In turn, the Protocol on Cooperation in the Field of Customs Statistics is aimed at improving the exchange of statistical data, increasing the accuracy of mutual trade accounting, and strengthening the analytical basis for decision-making in the field of foreign economic activity.

It is expected that the implementation of the agreements reached will contribute to the growth of bilateral trade turnover, strengthening of the region’s transit potential, and creation of favorable conditions for participants in foreign economic activity.

Turkmen–Uzbek Joint Training on Export Control and Monitoring of Trade in Strategic Goods Held

Sat, 20 Jun 2026 19:38:36 +0500

On 19 June 2026, the Training Center under the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan, jointly with the Customs Institute of the Customs Committee under the Ministry of Economy and Finance of the Republic of Uzbekistan, conducted a training event. The activity was organized within the framework of the Memorandum of Understanding between the two countries and in accordance with the 2026 Joint Training Plan.

The main objective of the training was to strengthen regional security, enhance the legal framework for cross-border trade, and develop export control systems in line with international standards. Particular attention was given to modern methods for detecting suspicious consignments and preventing illicit trade at customs checkpoints.

During the event, participants received comprehensive information on the implementation of international agreements and national regulations governing the export, import, and transit of strategic goods and technologies. Presentations on new technologies and digital solutions were also delivered, alongside an exchange of practical experience.

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 08:46:55 +0500

The 14th Meeting of the Regional Training Centres of the WCO European Region Held

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 10:19:50 +0500

On 1–2 June 2026, the 14th meeting of the Regional Office for Capacity Building (ROCB Europe) and the Regional Training Centres (RTCs) of the European Region of the World Customs Organization (WCO) was held in an online format.

Representatives of the WCO Regional Training Centre in Turkmenistan actively participated in the meeting, delivering a presentation on the Centre’s activities and sharing their practical experience.

The meeting was chaired by ROCB Europe and brought together representatives of all Regional Training Centres of the European Region, the Vice-Chair’s team, and the WCO Secretariat.

A key element of the agenda was the presentation and practical testing of the new RTCs’ Dashboard. This tool is intended not only as a technical platform, but also as an effective mechanism for communication, coordination, and information exchange among regional structures.

During the practical session, participants tested the platform’s functionality, including the uploading of training and presentation materials, which clearly demonstrated its potential to enhance the transparency and visibility of RTCs’ activities.

The discussions helped identify future areas of cooperation and facilitated the exchange of experience on current issues related to customs training. The meeting confirmed the importance of regular interaction among regional training centres.

A Working Meeting on Customs Matters to be Held

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 16:20:28 +0500

The State Customs Service is organizing its regular working meeting in Mary Velayat to provide legal assistance on customs matters to private entities engaged in the country's foreign economic activity and to representatives of logistics companies.

During the working meeting, legal assistance will be provided on the legal framework and execution of customs operations for goods exported from our country and imported from foreign countries, requirements for international freight transportation, newly introduced regulations regarding the use of the digital system in customs, and other arising queries related to customs procedures.

Date: June 9, 2026

Starting Time: 10:00 AM

Venue: Conference Hall of the Mary Velayat Branch of the Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs of Turkmenistan (2nd floor).

Address: 18 Bitaraplyk Street, Mary City.

We cordially invite all interested parties to attend.

For any additional inquiries regarding the working meeting, you can utilize the "Question-Answer" service by calling: 39-41-39.

Artificial Intelligence Technology Implemented in the "Single Window" System

Mon, 01 Jun 2026 10:49:34 +0500

The State Customs Service of Turkmenistan announces the implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) technology into the web portal "Single Window for Export-Import Operations" (tradebridge.gov.tm).

Starting June 1, 2026, users of the system have access to an AI-powered feature that automates several key processes in customs administration. Specifically, the AI enables the determination of commodity codes in accordance with the Commodity Nomenclature of Foreign Economic Activity (HS Code), provides preliminary information on required permissive documents, and calculates estimated customs duty rates for export and import operations.

This project was implemented in cooperation with the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), in line with initiatives for the digitalization of customs activities, the development of regional connectivity, and the formation of the "smart customs" concept.

The integrated artificial intelligence system operates in real-time and supports three languages—Turkmen, Russian, and English—ensuring ease of use for a wide range of participants in foreign economic activity.

The introduction of AI aims to simplify commodity classification procedures, reduce customs clearance times, and improve the accuracy of customs payment calculations and foreign trade statistics. Furthermore, the new functionality contributes to expanding the range of digital customs services and improving information support for businesses. The implementation of this project is an important step within the ongoing reforms for the digital transformation of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan and its further integration into the international trading system.

Joint Turkmen–Uzbek Training on Customs Valuation of Goods

Mon, 25 May 2026 16:49:29 +0500

On 22 May 2026, in accordance with the Memorandum of Understanding between the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan and the State Customs Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan in the field of personnel training, and within the framework of the 2026 Joint Training Plan, a training session was conducted via videoconference.

The training, dedicated to the procedure for determining the customs value of goods imported from abroad, was held with the participation of representatives of customs training institutions of both countries, academic staff, as well as specialists from customs payments divisions of the Parties.

The session began with congratulatory remarks on the occasion of the 23rd anniversary of the establishment of the Customs Institute of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Participants highlighted the Institute’s achievements and expressed wishes for its continued successful development.

During the session, participants exchanged practical experience on customs valuation issues, reviewed national practices, methods, and mechanisms applied in this field, and discussed current challenges and possible solutions in line with international standards. Particular attention was given to the harmonization of valuation methodologies, increasing transparency of procedures, and enhancing the professional skills of specialists.

It was noted that such a format of cooperation contributes to deepening knowledge, improving staff qualifications, and strengthening effective cooperation between the customs services of the two countries.