The Ministry of Commerce & Industry participated in the 25th Meeting of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Ministers Responsible for Economic and Foreign Trade Activities held in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, on 17 September 2026. India presented its approach to strengthening regional trade and economic ties within the SCO framework. The meeting brought together trade ministers from SCO member states to review cooperation and plan future economic collaboration.
What India proposed
Representing India, Shri Yashvir Singh outlined three pillars for advancing SCO trade relations: Security, Connectivity and Opportunity. These pillars focus on making supply chains more resilient, building efficient and trusted transportation links between member states, and creating better market access for businesses.
India emphasised the role of trade facilitation and digital tools in reducing costs and delays. Specific recommendations included:
- Streamlined customs procedures and paperless trade systems
- Electronic exchange of documents instead of physical paperwork
- Stronger transport connections and faster transit times
- Joint efforts to develop supplies in agriculture, critical minerals, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing and electronics
- Cooperation on energy security and renewable energy, including green hydrogen
- Better access to digital payments and trade finance for small businesses, startups and MSMEs
The member states adopted a joint Statement and approved an Action Plan for 2026–2030 to implement multilateral trade and economic cooperation. They also established a Special Working Group on the Creative Economy. The next ministerial meeting will take place in 2027 in Uzbekistan.
What this means for you
If you run a small business or startup, India is pushing for easier access to trade finance and digital payment systems to help you participate in regional commerce. Traders and logistics companies may benefit from faster customs clearance and reduced transit times across SCO borders. Students interested in pharmaceuticals, electronics, agriculture or renewable energy may find growing regional opportunities as SCO states strengthen cooperation in these sectors.