Technical Task Team Launched to Advance Food Systems-Based Dietary Guidelines in Tajikistan

The meeting brought together representatives of government institutions, research and academic bodies, civil society organizations, and development partners to support Tajikistan’s efforts to develop Food Systems-Based Dietary Guidelines (FSBDGs).

During the meeting, experts nominated to Tajikistan’s Technical Task Team reviewed the FSBDGs concept and methodology, discussed the role and mandate of the TTT in the national context, and agreed on working modalities for the coming months. Participants also examined preliminary findings from the recently conducted national policy review and provided feedback to ensure coherence with national priorities. The meeting concluded with a summary of agreed actions and the identification of next steps for the development of the guidelines.

The establishment of the Technical Task Team and the strengthened collaboration between FAO and the Ministry of Health and Social Protection mark an important step toward the development of dietary guidelines that are evidence-based, nationally relevant, and aligned with sustainable food systems development. The process will continue through technical consultations, data analysis, expert review, and broad stakeholder engagement.

“Improving nutrition is central to public health. The development of Food Systems-Based Dietary Guidelines will help guide policies and actions that protect and promote the health of every citizen,” stated Amirzoda Abdukholiq, Deputy Minister of Health and Social Protection of the Republic of Tajikistan.

“Today’s meeting represents a meaningful step toward developing dietary guidelines that reflect the realities of Tajikistan’s food systems. Through cross-sectoral collaboration, we can help ensure that healthier diets are accessible, affordable, and sustainable for all,” emphasized Aghasi Harutyunyan, FAO Representative a.i. in Tajikistan.

As part of a broader regional initiative, FAO is supporting Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan in the development of FSBDGs - context-specific and practical recommendations that promote healthy diets through sustainable food systems. The initiative aims to improve nutrition outcomes and contribute to food systems transformation across Central Asia.

Recognizing that traditional dietary guidelines have often focused primarily on consumer information, with limited evidence of effectiveness, FAO has introduced the FSBDGs methodology as a comprehensive, government-led, and multisectoral approach grounded in national food system realities.

FAO remains committed to supporting Tajikistan and the wider Central Asia region in advancing healthier diets, stronger food systems, and improved nutrition for all.