Tajikistan seeks Iranian oil despite Trump’s warning

The Central Asian country of Tajikistan has expressed interest in importing large quantities of crude oil and other fuel products from Iran. According to an official statement from the country’s Transport Ministry, Tajikistan has applied to import around 2.55 million tonnes of fuel from Iran. According to the ministry, the proposed imports include 2 million tonnes of crude oil, 150,000 tonnes of petrol, 300,000 tonnes of diesel and 100,000 tonnes of aviation or jet fuel.

Russia recently imposed restrictions on oil exports amid fuel shortages caused by the Ukraine war. Tajikistan normally imports around 80% of its fuel from Russia. The restrictions have left the country facing a serious fuel crisis and searching for alternative sources. In July, Tajikistan’s Energy Minister said the country was holding talks with Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, Iran, Iraq and Belarus over additional fuel supplies as alternatives to Russia.

Analysts are now watching how the Trump administration may respond. US President Donald Trump recently warned countries against engaging in any trade with Iran. Following Mr Trump’s announcement of what he described as an “economic war” and tough economic sanctions against Iran, uncertainty has emerged over how Tajikistan could implement such a major oil deal with Tehran. The key question now is how far Tajikistan can advance its import plan while defying potential US sanctions.