Vending Machines Selling Gold Bars to Appear in Tajikistan
The National Bank of Tajikistan plans to expand public access to investments in precious metals by installing specialized vending machines in the capital Dushanbe, allowing customers to buy and sell gold bars. The initiative was announced by the bank’s chairman, Firdavs Tolibzoda. According to the regulator, the equipment will be installed in Dushanbe and will enable residents to conduct transactions with gold bars automatically. The machines will operate similarly to conventional ATMs. Customers will be able to select a gold bar, pay by bank card, and receive the product. Some machines are also expected to allow customers to sell gold back to the bank. Such devices are typically located in shopping centers, airports, and other high-traffic areas. As Tolibzoda emphasized, the decision is aimed at “expanding public access to the purchase of gold bars.” Gold bars have been in free circulation in Tajikistan since June 2017. They are currently sold at the central office of the National Bank in Dushanbe and through several commercial banks. According to the regulator, 200 kilograms of gold were sold in the country in 2025 for a total of $24.64 million. Individuals accounted for the majority of purchases. The price of bullion is set daily. It is calculated based on the price of a troy ounce (31.1034768 grams) at the morning interbank fixing in London. Additional costs, including production, transportation, insurance, and customs duties, are also taken into account. The bars are produced from gold mined in Tajikistan. According to the National Bank, 2025 marked a turning point for the domestic gold market. The price of its standardized gold bars rose by an average of 39.03% during the year, the highest increase in recent years. The growth was attributed to rising global gold prices amid geopolitical tensions, a weakening U.S. dollar, and increased demand for safe-haven assets. Bars weighing 10, 20, and 50 grams are available for purchase. As is customary in the bullion market, the larger the bar, the lower the price per gram.
