Central Asia is facing a growing water crisis caused by wasteful use of water. The region’s water resources are dwindling amid some of the lowest water rates in the world.

Experts warn that water shortages could become chronic by 2028 and the only solution is to raise tariffs.

Stanislav Pritchin, head of the Central Asia sector at the National Research Institute of World Economy and International Relations of the Russian Academy of Sciences, noted at the round table “Climate Change and Water Use Problems in Central Asia,” which was held on February 18, 2025 in Bishkek, that the cost of water in Central Asia is one of the lowest in the world. 

For comparison, in Russia the price for a cubic meter of water is 49 cents, and in some developed countries – several dollars. In Central Asian countries, this amount barely reaches 10-15 cents, which creates an erroneous perception of water as an unlimited resource.

With such low prices, agricultural enterprises and households have no incentive to conserve water, which leads to its irrational use.

In Tajikistan, for example, per capita water consumption is 1,895 m³ per year, which is significantly higher than the world average. In Kazakhstan, this figure is lower (1,310 m³ per person), but also remains high.

Such data indicate the need to take measures to curb the growth of consumption. 

Increasing tariffs as a means of solving the problem

One possible step to solve the water problem in Central Asia is to increase water tariffs, which has already become a reality in some countries in the region.

In Tajikistan, irrigation water tariffs increased by 150% in 2024. This is an important step aimed at stimulating more rational use of water resources and improving the condition of infrastructure. 

As of 2025, the cost of irrigation water in Uzbekistan is $0.15 per cubic meter, in Tajikistan – $0.05, and in Kazakhstan – $0.14. These prices, despite the increase, still remain extremely low and do not provide sufficient funds for the modernization of water supply networks.

According to experts, the tariff increase should also help attract private investors to the water sector, which will modernize the aging infrastructure. Water supply in Central Asian countries suffers from technical losses caused by worn-out pumping stations and main canals that need major repairs.

The increase in tariffs should partially cover the costs of maintaining and modernizing these facilities.

 

Risks and consequences of tariff increases

While raising water tariffs is an important step to ensure the financial sustainability of water utilities, it comes with a number of risks and potential negative consequences.

One of the main risks is the growth of social tensions. In Central Asian countries, the population has low income levels, and rising water prices could worsen economic difficulties, especially for agricultural producers who depend on irrigation water.

For example, in Tajikistan, where the average salary is lower than in neighboring countries, rising prices for irrigation water could lead to discontent among farmers.

Increasing irrigation water tariffs may put a strain on agricultural enterprises, especially in unstable climate conditions. This may affect crop yields, especially in countries where agriculture is the backbone of the economy.

 

Facts

1. Water shortage forecast:

By 2028, Central Asia may experience a chronic water deficit of up to 5-12 cubic kilometers, which will cause a crisis in agriculture, industry and energy. 

2. Water supply infrastructure:

The technical depreciation of water supply infrastructure amounts to 80%.

Water losses in distribution networks reach 55–60%.

3. Water saving:

Efficient use of water and land resources can save up to 56% of water without harming agriculture.

4. Water consumption in Central Asian countries:

Turkmenistan: 5,319 m³/year per capita.

Uzbekistan: 2,295 m³/year.

Kyrgyzstan: 1,989 m³/year.

Tajikistan: 1,895 m³/year.

Kazakhstan: 1,310 m³/year.

5. Water losses in irrigation canals:

Losses in irrigation canals amount to 20–25 billion cubic meters of water per year. 

Read more: https://asiaplustj.info/en/news/tajikistan/economic/20250226/central-asia-advised-to-raise-irrigation-water-tariffs