State customs service of Turkmenistan

Turkmen and Uzbek Customs Officers Exchanged Experience in Controlling Transit Goods

Fri, 02 Oct 2026 16:01:44 +0500

On September 30, 2026, a practical seminar was held via videoconference between representatives of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan and the State Customs Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan on the topic "Customs Control of Goods Transported in Transit." The aim of the event was to exchange experience between the customs authorities of the two neighboring countries on transit operations.

The seminar, organized at the Training Center of the World Customs Organization in Turkmenistan, was attended by 16 military personnel from relevant departments of the Central Apparatus of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan, the customs offices of Ashgabat, Arkadag, and Ahal region, as well as relevant customs posts.

During the seminar, the parties exchanged experience on modern methods of organizing customs control over transit goods transported across the borders of the two countries, the legal framework of documents issued at the customs border, and measures to expedite procedures.

Furthermore, the participants discussed issues regarding increasing the efficiency of international transit corridors and digitizing customs procedures at borders.

Participation of Turkmen Customs Officers in a Training Seminar in China

Fri, 02 Oct 2026 15:48:16 +0500

From September 8 to 21, 2026, upon the invitation of the Chinese side, a delegation from the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan participated in a two-week training seminar held in the city of Urumqi, dedicated to enhancing customs clearance capacities at sea ports for Central Asian states.

The delegation comprised personnel from dry and sea port customs posts within the jurisdiction of the Ashgabat City and Balkan Velayat Customs.

During the training, participants studied in detail practical algorithms for accelerating customs clearance at sea ports, the operation of non-contact inspection systems, the automated processing of electronic devices and documentation, as well as the functioning of the "Smart Railway Port" system designed for the rapid clearance of containers at borders. Special emphasis was also placed on the application of intelligent customs risk management systems.

The adoption of China's advanced practices in customs clearance will contribute to the ongoing efforts to enhance customs posts at the Turkmenbashi International Sea Port.

UN Customs Cooperation Center in Turkmenistan: New Initiative at the 81st Session of the UN General Assembly

Thu, 01 Oct 2026 16:19:00 +0500

In the statement by the Permanent Representative of Turkmenistan to the UN, Vepa Hajiyev, delivered during the General Debate of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly and published on the official website of the Permanent Mission of Turkmenistan to the UN, the country's strategic initiatives aimed at developing transport infrastructure and facilitating global trade were presented. Specifically, it was proposed to establish a transregional transport corridor under the auspices of the UN, connecting South and Central Asia with Europe via the Caspian Sea, and, for its institutional support, to create an International Center for Sustainable Trade Logistics and Customs Cooperation in Turkmenistan under UN auspices.

As noted in the statement, this Center is designed to serve as a practical platform for harmonizing customs procedures, exchanging best practices, digitalizing transit operations, and expanding access for developing countries to global markets.

These initiatives directly align with the core competencies and practical priorities of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan. The operation of this prospective route demands innovative approaches to customs regulation, expedited customs operations, and the seamless integration of smart systems at the intersection of land and maritime logistics hubs.

Leveraging its modern material and technical infrastructure, advanced digitalization, and smart control-analytical systems, the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan is fully prepared for the practical implementation of these international initiatives and for ensuring the smooth, uninterrupted operation of the future International Center.

Ceremony held to present State awards and confer next military ranks

Tue, 29 Sep 2026 11:16:46 +0500

In accordance with the relevant Decrees signed by our Honorable Supreme Commander-in-Chief on conferring military and special ranks, awarding medals of Turkmenistan, and conferring the jubilee medal of Turkmenistan “To the Participant of the Festive Military Parade Dedicated to the 35th Anniversary of Independence of Turkmenistan” upon military personnel and employees of the military and law enforcement agencies, several military personnel of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan were conferred higher military ranks and awarded State honors.

On September 28, 2026, a solemn ceremony was held at the central office of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan to present State awards and next military ranks to the deserving officers of the Service. The event, which commenced with the playing of the National Anthem, was held at a high organizational level. These State awards were presented in recognition of the officers' long-standing, flawless service to our prosperous Homeland and courageous people, as well as on the occasion of the glorious 35th anniversary of Independence.

The officers who received State awards and regular military ranks expressed their profound gratitude and assured that they would continue to serve our beloved Homeland and the Honorable Supreme Commander-in-Chief with utmost loyalty and dedication, faithfully carrying out their duties to safeguard the economic security of the country.

Pride of the Service, Loyalty to the Motherland: Customs Officers at the Independence Parade

Tue, 29 Sep 2026 11:01:20 +0500

The year 2026 has entered the history of Turkmenistan as a truly remarkable milestone as the nation celebrated the 35th anniversary of its Independence with grandeur and honor.

The culmination of the celebrations on September 27 was a grand military parade in front of the State Tribune. The highlight and pride of this procession was the marching contingent of the officer corps of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan.

Marching in flawless formation with high spirits and resolute pride, the customs officers swept past the tribune. As their powerful cry reverberated under the unified motto, “People, Motherland, Supreme Commander-in-Chief!”, the guardians of the country's economic security demonstrated not only precision military bearing, but also boundless love for their sacred homeland and unwavering devotion to their native land.

Future of "Central Asia – China" Customs Control Discussed in Urumqi

Thu, 24 Sep 2026 13:11:14 +0500

From September 15 to 17, 2026, customs officials from China and Central Asian nations gathered at a customs forum in the People's Republic of China to lay the foundation for a new digital customs control ecosystem.

A delegation from the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan attended the First Meeting of the Working Group as observers, joining counterparts from China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan to discuss advanced risk management technologies, artificial intelligence algorithms, and smart data analytics.

The primary outcome of the meeting was the agreement on a draft "Procedure of Cooperation" for the reliable exchange of information between customs administrations. Scheduled for signing during the Third "Central Asia – China" Summit in 2027, this strategic mechanism aims to significantly accelerate cross-border cargo clearance, enhance control reliability, and make regional trade routes even safer and more transparent. As an initial practical step, the parties agreed to launch a pilot information exchange and to hold the next meeting in the Republic of Kazakhstan.

Participation as observers provided the Turkmen side with an opportunity to study leading international practices and formulate a set of concrete initiatives to modernize the national customs system.

WCO RTC in Turkmenistan and ITC Conducted a Training Course on Customs Risk Management

Fri, 18 Sep 2026 18:17:02 +0500

From September 16 to 18, 2026, an intensive training course titled "Implementation of Advanced Customs Risk Management Approaches" was held at the World Customs Organization Regional Training Centre in Turkmenistan (RTC Turkmenistan). The event was organized jointly with the International Trade Centre within the framework of the EU-funded regional project "Ready4Trade Central Asia: Fostering Prosperity through the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor".

About 30 customs officers participated in the three-day seminar, with international expert Mr. Sertaç Yapici serving as the trainer. In his presentation, the international expert provided a detailed overview of the operation of customs risk management systems, demonstrating through concrete examples the effectiveness of utilizing modern data analysis methods and artificial intelligence technologies.

Furthermore, he highly commended the ongoing efforts within the customs system of Turkmenistan in this area and highlighted the vital importance of interregional and international information exchange.

Customs officers actively engaged in practical exercises and interactive discussions throughout the seminar. They exchanged experiences on advance risk profiling for goods and vehicles crossing the customs border, the efficient operation of "green," "yellow," and "red" channels, and discussed ways to adapt best global practices to national conditions.

The WCO RTC in Turkmenistan serves as an institutional platform for regional customs authorities, dedicated to enhancing professional capacity and promoting global trade facilitation standards. The systematic utilization of its material, technical, and educational potential enables the delivery of specialized courses at a high level, facilitates the transfer of best international practices, and supports the development of a highly qualified customs workforce.

Thu, 17 Sep 2026 17:11:53 +0500

Innovations and Digital Transformation: Exhibition Pavilion of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan

Thu, 17 Sep 2026 17:08:44 +0500

On September 17, 2026, the Exhibition of Economic Achievements of Turkmenistan, dedicated to the 35th anniversary of the country's independence, opened at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Turkmenistan. Among the key participants in this large-scale forum, the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan presented its high-tech pavilion. Designed in a modern, fully equipped style featuring official branding, the department's exposition clearly reflects key achievements in modernizing the customs system and digitizing trade procedures.

The center of the exposition is dedicated to demonstrating advanced digital tools, with visitors showing particular interest in the "Single Window" electronic system and the electronic GPS monitoring system for transit cargo transport. The pavilion's interactive displays clearly demonstrate how these technologies speed up border customs formalities, ensure control transparency, and track cargo movements in real time. Additionally, joint projects implemented with international partners are presented.

Alongside the presentation of digital services, the pavilion features a specialized consultation area where participants and guests can receive comprehensive answers regarding customs clearance procedures and active business support services.

The State Customs Service's pavilion highlights the agency's efforts to enhance the nation's transit and logistics capabilities and support international trade.

Development of Customs Cooperation Between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Korea

Wed, 16 Sep 2026 18:06:37 +0500

On September 15, 2026, as part of the state visit of President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov to the Republic of Korea, a ceremony for the exchange of bilateral documents took place with the participation of both heads of state. Among the concluded agreements, international legal acts regulating the sphere of customs administration hold fundamental significance.

The Agreement between the Government of Turkmenistan and the Government of the Republic of Korea on Cooperation and Mutual Administrative Assistance in Customs Matters is designated to serve as the key regulatory framework for bilateral interaction between the customs authorities. Functioning as a foundational document, it establishes institutional conditions for rapid information exchange, the digitalization of customs procedures, enhancing the efficiency of customs control, and deepening interagency cooperation.

Furthermore, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan and the Korea Customs Service on cooperation in the field of protection of intellectual property rights at the customs border. The practical implementation of this document will intensify efforts against the movement of counterfeit products, ensure the robust protection of intellectual property rights, and enhance supply chain security in bilateral trade.

Regional Seminar on Customs Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence Held in Ashgabat

Sat, 12 Sep 2026 12:14:03 +0500

On September 10–11, 2026, the Regional Training Centre of the World Customs Organization (WCO) in Turkmenistan hosted a hybrid regional seminar titled “Digital Transformation in Customs: Data Integration, Risk Management Systems, and the Use of Artificial Intelligence in Analysis and Automation”.

The event brought together managers and specialists from the Central Apparatus of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan, Ashgabat City and Ahal Province Customs Administrations, as well as trainees from the advanced training course on "Risk Management Systems in Customs".

In-person participants included Mr. Haji Hajiyev, representative of the WCO Regional Office for Capacity Building (ROCB Europe), and the main speaker of the seminar, Mr. Yusif Usubov, expert from the State Customs Committee of the Republic of Azerbaijan. Joining the discussions online were WCO Secretariat experts Mr. Dimitris Politopoulos and Dr. Tong Hua, along with representatives from WCO Regional Training Centres in Europe.

Representatives of the WCO Secretariat briefed the participants on global digital transformation trends and the implementation of the conceptual "Smart Customs" project. The key speaker, Mr. Yusif Usubov, presented Azerbaijan's practical experience in integrating machine learning algorithms and artificial intelligence models for data analytics and risk profiling. In turn, Turkmen specialists presented their national experience in applying digital systems and implementing AI-based solutions in customs operations.

During the final round table, participants discussed deepening regional cooperation, capacity building, and launching joint prospective initiatives. The seminar program concluded with a visit for the guests to learn about the operations of the Monitoring and Analysis Centre of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan.

Turkmen Customs Officers Attended an International Workshop in Warsaw on the Development of the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 20:09:12 +0500

Representatives of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan participated in the workshop “Customs for the Cross-Regional Connectivity Agenda: Linking the EU with Central Asia, the Black Sea Region and the South Caucasus,” held on September 7-9 in Warsaw.

Organized by the European Commission, the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ), and the National Revenue Administration of Poland, the workshop brought together delegates from 15 countries, along with experts from relevant EU and UN bodies, to strengthen cooperation along the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor.

Participants discussed the implementation of international border control standards, the development of the Single Window mechanism, the harmonization of transit procedures using the eTIR system, and the enhancement of risk management systems. As part of the practical block, the delegation learned about advanced IT solutions, the operation of non-intrusive inspection equipment and mobile units, and visited the Customs Office in Warsaw.

Following the meeting, participants identified key barriers to cargo transport along the corridor and initiated the drafting of a Joint Action Plan to expedite customs procedures and enhance supply chain security. The participants also agreed on the agenda for upcoming bilateral and multilateral meetings.

Turkmenistan and Malaysia expand cooperation in the customs field

Wed, 26 Aug 2026 12:04:07 +0500

From 10 to 21 August 2026, a representative of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan participated for the first time in the “International Course for Senior Officer of Customs on Narcotics Identification and Narcotics Law Enforcement”, held at the Royal Malaysian Customs Academy (AKMAL) in Melaka under the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Programme (MTCP).

The course covered narcotics identification and law enforcement, risk management, profiling, investigation techniques, and modern customs control methods. Particular attention was given to the exchange of experience among the customs administrations of participating countries and to strengthening international cooperation.

Participation in the programme provided an opportunity to learn about the experience of the Royal Malaysian Customs Department, the organization of customs control at an international airport and seaports, and the use of modern technologies in the customs field.

This first visit in this area marked an important step in developing professional ties between the customs administrations of Turkmenistan and Malaysia and created additional opportunities for further exchange of experience and stronger international customs cooperation.

Tue, 25 Aug 2026 11:57:52 +0500

Electronic exchange of advance information launched between the customs authorities of Turkmenistan and the Republic of Kazakhstan

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 18:55:10 +0500

Since august 2026, Turkmenistan and the Republic of Kazakhstan have established an electronic exchange of advance information on goods and vehicles moving between the two countries.

The exchange is carried out through the information systems of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan and the State Revenue Committee of the Republic of Kazakhstan in accordance with the existing interagency agreement and the technical specifications for information exchange.

The main advantage of the new mechanism is that customs authorities receive information on goods and vehicles before they arrive at the border. This makes it possible to analyze the information in advance and prepare for the necessary customs procedures.

For businesses and carriers, such an exchange provides tangible practical benefits: it reduces the time required for customs procedures, accelerates the movement of goods across the border, decreases the volume of paper-based documentation, and improves the predictability of international transportation.

In addition, electronic interaction contributes to improving the quality and reliability of mutual trade statistics between the two countries.

The establishment of such an exchange is an important step in the digitalization of customs administration and the further simplification of conditions for conducting foreign economic activities. Its further development will help accelerate export, import, and transit operations, reduce time costs for businesses, and strengthen trade and transport links between Turkmenistan and the Republic of Kazakhstan.

Training Workshop on the Identification of Dual-Use Goods and Arms Concludes in Ashgabat

Fri, 14 Aug 2026 16:37:11 +0500

From August 11 to 13, 2026, a three-day training workshop on the identification of strategic goods was held at the Archabil Hotel in Ashgabat for employees of the State Customs Service of Turkmenistan, as well as the Ministries of Trade, Defense, and Internal Affairs. The event was organized by the German Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA) within the framework of the European Union’s EU P2P Programme.

During the workshop, participants underwent intensive theoretical and practical training led by leading European experts from Slovenia, the United Kingdom, and Lithuania, who possess extensive experience working in customs authorities and international organizations. The primary focus of the training was aimed at enhancing the accuracy of classification and identification of chemical, biological, nuclear, and radioactive materials, specialized equipment (Chapters 84, 85, and 90 of the HS), as well as conventional military goods in accordance with the Harmonized System codes.

This event and the knowledge acquired through it will enable customs officers to more effectively counter the illicit trafficking of sensitive goods requiring special control, thereby contributing to regional security, enhancing the transparency of international trade flows, and deepening the partnership between Turkmenistan and the European Union.

Training on Maritime Transport Safety Held at Turkmenbashi and Alat Ports

Thu, 13 Aug 2026 19:02:01 +0500

11-13 August, 2026, the International Sea Ports of Turkmenbashy and Alat hosted a joint practical training on information exchange in maritime transport. The event brought together members of the Port Control Units of Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Tajikistan. It was organized by the UNODC Regional Office for Central Asia under the framework of the joint UNODC-World Customs Organization (WCO) Global Container Control Programme.

The primary objectives of the initiative were to boost international cargo turnover across the Caspian Sea, curb illicit trade, and mitigate associated risks. Additionally, the training aimed to enhance the professional qualifications of specialists, improve operational data-sharing skills, and strengthen direct cooperation between the port facilities of Turkmenbashy and Alat.

Led by WCO experts, the training course commenced on August 11 in Turkmenistan, continued directly on board a vessel during its crossing of the Caspian Sea, and concluded on August 13 at the Port of Alat in Azerbaijan. During the practical sessions, participants exchanged best practices through hands-on exercises focused on analyzing shipping documents and conducting joint customs inspections of cargo and transport units.

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.