Sughd free economic zone (Sughd FEZ) is an industrial-innovative type, which was established in 2009 according to the Decree of the Government of the Republic of Tajikistan dated May 2, 2008. Sughd FEZ is located on the Southwest Industrial Area of Khujand with a total area of 320 hectares. Geological and geodetic surveys were made in this area as well as the design work was carried out. In this part of the city there is a possibility to expand the territory of Sughd FEZ for up to 2,000 hectares of land at the expense of free space in the future. Choosing a location Sughd FEZ was due to the presence of the industrial and communications infrastructure in this area relatively close proximity of residential areas of Khujand city, the presence of new bridge over Syr-Darya River, and construction of a branch railway to Sughd FEZ in the future. One of the most important criteria in choosing a site to start a business is the geographical location. Sughd FEZ provides with a favorable site for export-oriented enterprises. Developed transport network system of Khujand provides with a wide range of opportunities for export and trade with near- and far abroad countries. Transport and logistic The distance to the border with Uzbekistan is 70 km and to Kyrgyzstan - 15 km. New international transit highway “Dushanbe-Khujand-Chanak” runs directly near the main entrance of Sughd Free Economic Zone. The nearest railway station and the international airport of “Khujand” are located in a distance of 18 kilometers from Sughd FEZ. Nowadays the project of construction of the railway line Sughd FEZ station – “Spitamen” station with total length of 22 km is developed. Development timeline The Decree on creation of Sughd FEZ was adopted on May 2, 2008 Regulation of free economic zone “Sughd” approved by the Parliament on 29 October 2008 The administration began operating on August 18, 2009, and a year later, on August 18, 2010, the first subjects have been registered. Since 2011 and in subsequent years, the opening ceremony of large enterprises of Sughd FEZ was held with the participation of Founder of Peace and National Unity - Leader of the Nation, President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon. The purposes and objectives of Sughd FEZ The purpose of the Sughd FEZ activity is to provide favorable conditions for local and foreign investors to implement investment projects in the field