Turkmenistan: Authorities tighten COVID-19 countermeasures in Lebap Region as of July 14 /update 15

Turkmenistan tightens COVID-19 countermeasures in Lebap Region as of July 14; travel and business disruptions likely.

Event

Authorities have tightened COVID-19 countermeasures in Lebap Region, as of July 14, in response to increasing case numbers. Authorities have reportedly erected checkpoints on major regional roads, and travel between districts is prohibited. Rail travel between the capital, Ashgabat, and the regional center, Turkmenabat, has been suspended. Markets, catering facilities, and nonessential retailers have been closed until at least July 17. All parks and recreational areas in the regional center, Turkmenabat, are indefinitely closed.

Authorities previously announced that vaccination would be compulsory for all citizens of Turkmenistan over the age of 18. Persons with acute or chronic diseases are exempt from the mandatory vaccination order, as are pregnant or breastfeeding women and persons with an allergic reaction to an ingredient of the vaccine.

Nationally, authorities have previously taken steps to ease COVID-19 countermeasures. Domestic rail transport resumed operations, however, services are intermittently suspended with little warning. Domestic flights are operating on a significantly reduced schedule. Security forces continue to man checkpoints on roads entering Ashgabat. Checkpoints have also been reported on highways in Balkan, Mary, and Dashoguz provinces, where health screenings have been carried out. Special permits are required for travel within or between provinces.

Houses of worship have reopened, as have educational institutions. Some stores, shopping malls, and restaurants are either open or have limited operations. Hairdressers and other contact businesses may open for appointments only. Certain entertainment venues, leisure facilities, and cultural venues remain closed indefinitely. All persons are required to observe social distancing of at least 2 meters (6.5 feet) and wear protective face coverings in public.

International Entry Restrictions
International commercial flights remain suspended. While the measure remains in place, the only way to enter or leave the country by air is via a limited number of charter flights that are allowed to operate at Turkmenabat International Airport (CRZ).

All land borders with Afghanistan, Iran, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan are closed until further notice. Only Turkmen nationals, permanent residents, diplomats, and workers in critical industries and key infrastructure are permitted to enter the country. Unvaccinated foreign nationals must present proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within the previous 72 hours, and must undergo a 21-day quarantine in a state-run facility. Vaccinated travelers must self-isolate for only seven days. All arrivals will be tested on arrival regardless of vaccination status. While freight transporters are generally allowed entry, Turkmen authorities have previously restricted cross-border freight traffic without warning or explanation. All persons departing the country must be in possession of a negative COVID-19 test certificate signed within the previous 24 hours.

Authorities could impose further restrictions based on disease activity with little to no advance notice.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions.