India to Push Economic and Trade Ties at SCO Meet in Tajikistan

India’s Rajnath Singh attends the SCO meeting in Tajikistan on October 19–20, with discussions focused on trade, investment, connectivity, digital commerce and the 2026–2030 economic cooperation plan.

India is set to push for stronger economic and trade cooperation among member countries at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Council of Heads of Government meeting in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, on October 19 and 20, 2026. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh represents India at the meeting, which focuses on strengthening regional cooperation across trade, investment, connectivity, innovation and other economic priorities.

The meeting provides an opportunity for participating countries to review existing cooperation initiatives and discuss measures to advance practical, mutually beneficial economic engagement. Discussions are also expected to address the organisation’s financial and institutional functioning, alongside efforts to improve regional trade and investment links.

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India’s priorities include expanding trade among SCO member states, reducing trade costs, strengthening supply chains and improving transport and logistics connectivity. At the meeting of SCO ministers responsible for foreign economic and trade activities in Dushanbe in September, India called for simplified customs procedures, paperless trade and electronic exchanges of trade documents to make cross-border commerce more efficient. It also highlighted the need for stronger multimodal connectivity and shorter transit times.

India has also identified opportunities for greater cooperation in agriculture, critical minerals, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing and electronics. Energy security, renewable energy and green hydrogen are additional areas where member states could expand collaboration. India further emphasises digital and cross-border payments, along with improved access to trade finance, to help micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and start-ups participate more effectively in regional and international markets.

A key economic priority is the proposed Action Plan for 2026-2030 to implement the SCO Programme of Multilateral Trade and Economic Cooperation. The plan was agreed upon at the September ministerial meeting for further approval by the Council of Heads of Government. Cooperation in digital trade, customs interoperability, innovation and emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, is also expected to feature in the broader economic agenda.

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India remains engaged in SCO initiatives covering start-ups, innovation, digital public infrastructure and people-to-people exchanges. Through these efforts, it seeks to strengthen regional economic links and expand opportunities for businesses across member countries.