The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Tajikistan has expressed deep concern and regret regarding the inclusion of several Tajik banks in the European Union's sanctions list.

In an official statement released on November 1, the Ministry emphasized that Tajikistan strictly adheres to its international obligations and is ready to cooperate with partners to prevent risks associated with the potential circumvention of sanctions.

"The Government of Tajikistan is closely monitoring the situation and taking necessary measures to minimize the negative consequences that these sanctions might cause," the statement reads.

It is worth recalling that on October 23, 2025, the European Union Council approved a new, 19th package of anti-Russian sanctions. This package affects the operations of several banks and companies from third countries, including financial institutions from Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, the UAE, Hong Kong, China, and India.

The sanctions list includes three Tajik banks: Dushanbe City Bank, Spitamen Bank, and Kommertsbank of Tajikistan.

The decision will come into effect on November 12, 2025. In total, 12 banks and companies from third countries have been added to the list. According to the EU Council's official statement, these entities were involved in circumventing EU sanctions and are now subject to a ban on conducting transactions with EU entities.

This means that these financial institutions are prohibited from conducting any transactions with EU companies or individuals, effectively limiting their interaction with the European financial system, including transfers and settlements in euros.

Earlier, the National Bank of Tajikistan (NBT) stated that it is working with financial institutions and international partners to assess the situation and take measures to mitigate possible consequences. The regulator emphasized that banking services in the country continue to operate as usual, with changes likely affecting only international transfers, where additional checks will be introduced.

In a comment to Asia-Plus, Dushanbe City Bank stated that the EU sanctions will not have a significant impact on its operations. "The bank continues to operate as usual, ensuring uninterrupted service for clients and fulfilling all obligations. All domestic transactions, as well as transfers and settlements in most currencies, are being carried out without restrictions," the bank noted.

The bank added that some difficulties may arise when conducting cross-border transfers in euros and in certain directions, but measures are already being taken to minimize these issues and find alternative channels for interaction.

Dushanbe City Bank also stated that the reasons for the sanctions against several banking institutions have not yet been clarified, and the bank intends to use international legal mechanisms to seek clarification and possibly review these decisions.

Kommertsbank of Tajikistan commented to Asia-Plus by calling the decision unjustified and announced its intention to challenge it: "The bank fully complies with current legislation and international norms, continues to operate stably and reliably, and provides uninterrupted service to clients. We are taking all necessary measures to resolve the situation, including appealing to the competent authorities to contest this decision. We are confident that the issue will be resolved in the near future, and the bank's operations will remain transparent and secure for clients and partners."