On June 20, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev chaired a video conference call on training engineering personnel and improving the performance of higher educational institutions.

In today's competitive world, our country, relying on domestic resources, is moving towards industrial development. Every year 3 thousand industrial enterprises are put into operation, about 150 thousand jobs are created.

This year, projects worth 21 trillion soums will be implemented within the framework of state investment programs. Also, projects with foreign and regional investments worth 37.5 billion dollars are planned for this year.

Accordingly, the state pays great attention to science, education and innovation. For example, over the past four years, 2.2 trillion soums have been allocated to 1,727 practical, innovative, fundamental and startup projects. Spending on research and development has doubled.

However, the results in this area and the number of highly qualified engineers are still insufficient. There is a gap between higher education institutions and industry.

That is why rectors of technical universities were also invited to the meeting.

The head of state first of all dwelt on the problems in this sphere.

The 36 state technical higher educational institutions annually graduate 67 thousand specialists. However, the programs and specialties in these universities do not meet the requirements of manufacturers. As a result, 60 percent of engineers do not work in their specialty.

Higher educational institutions are limited to fundamental research, and practical developments for the economy are very rare. Hundreds of startups and innovative projects in engineering fields remain on paper.

In foreign universities there are such specialties as "value engineering", "comparative engineering", "reverse engineering". In our technical universities, these areas are not developed. As a result, industries have to spend a lot of money on training their employees abroad or attract specialists from abroad.

Although the coverage of higher education has increased 5 times in the last seven years, the interest of young people in engineering and technical specialties is very low. Some equipment of universities and scientific laboratories is outdated. Many professors and teachers are disconnected from practice. Rectors do not visit enterprises, do not familiarize themselves with new technologies, do not study equipment and machines.

Over the last four years, the number of research contracts of universities has tripled. Revenues from them have increased 6 times. However, the implementation of the results of scientific developments into production is slow. Not everyone is equally successful in patenting their inventions.

The President presented new initiatives to develop this area.

Now training and research processes in technical areas will be completely changed based on the best practices. 36 universities and their branches will be gradually consolidated, leaving a total of 20 technical universities. They will completely switch to the dual system of education.

Specialties that are not in demand in the labor market will be reduced. Some departments will be merged. The functions of dean offices to serve students will be digitalized. Based on foreign experience, a "Registrar's Office" will be created.

Each university will establish cooperation with prestigious technical universities of developed partner countries such as Germany, Japan, China, Russia, Italy, Turkey, South Korea, Singapore.

Based on the chain "industry-enterprise-university", each university will be assigned an industrial partner.

All engineering universities will open departments at their partner enterprises and introduce dual education. At the same time, the enterprises will allocate funds to equip the departments, stimulate teachers and students. Student internships and graduate training will be fully organized at partner enterprises.

Thirty-two sectoral councils will be established in the system of ministries and enterprises. They will determine priority directions of scientific research in technical fields together with institutes and will be customers of these researches.

Also at the first stage, higher engineering schools will be opened in 10 universities. Two-year applied master's degree programs will be implemented in them, and candidates will be selected by order of manufacturers. Enterprises will financially support the establishment and equipping of laboratories in higher engineering schools. The state will also provide highly qualified engineers-technologists. If every minister, industry leader, rector, professor and teacher feels deep sense of responsibility and works hard, we will definitely achieve this," Shavkat Mirziyoyev said.

The status of pilot production enterprises of universities will be legislated. They will be granted privileges applicable to IT park residents. At least 60 percent of the employees of the subsidiaries will be doctoral candidates and students.

From next year, state grants for projects in technical areas will be increased fourfold. Partner organizations of universities will also be allowed to act as founders of enterprises.

Hokims of regions and heads of industries will be able to directly provide universities with orders for scientific and production projects up to 10 billion soums.

A system of allocating at least half a percent of the cost of investment projects for scientific activities will be introduced.

It has been determined to organize national contests "Best Idea", "Best Project" and "Best Invention" in engineering fields. Teachers, students and practicing engineers will be able to participate in them. The prize for the first place is an electric car.

Also 10 best participants, authors of ideas, projects and inventions will be sent for internship to such countries as Germany, Japan, China, Russia, Italy, Turkey, South Korea, Singapore.

The meeting continued in the format of an open dialog. Industry leaders, scientists, rectors and engineers expressed their opinions on the development of science and education in engineering.

It was assigned to draft a relevant decree based on the proposals.

- We need highly qualified engineers-technologists like air for the accelerated development of the economy. If every minister, industry leader, rector, professor and teacher feels deep sense of responsibility and works hard, we will definitely achieve this," Shavkat Mirziyoyev said.

The Content Preparation Center for Mass Media under the Administration of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan has launched, for the first time in Uzbekistan, an innovative media bank — the Aura.uz platform. It consolidates photo and video materials showcasing the country’s rich cultural heritage, unique nature, modern cities, and way of life.

The primary objective of the platform is to promote Uzbekistan’s positive image to both local and international audiences through high-quality visual content.

Currently, Aura.uz hosts nearly 6 terabytes of data, comprising more than 12,000 photos, videos, and infographics. The platform is continuously updated with around 200 new items daily.

A dedicated service has been established for the collection and publication of content. In addition, the archive has been formed using materials from the National Television and Radio Company of Uzbekistan (MTRC), press services of ministries and government agencies, as well as the national news agency UzA.

This project aims to address a key issue in Uzbekistan’s media landscape — the shortage of high-quality visual content. As a result, it is expected to significantly increase (by up to 1,000 times) the global volume of professional photo and video materials about Uzbekistan.

Today, many local and international video creators, bloggers, and media professionals encounter outdated or low-quality content, often containing captions, subtitles, or watermarks, when searching for visual resources. In particular, finding modern footage — especially region-specific or drone-shot visuals — remains a challenge.

The platform features:
— exclusively high-quality content (HD, Full HD, 4K and above);
— materials provided without captions, logos, or subtitles;
— videos available in both horizontal (16:9) and vertical (9:16) formats;
— a convenient search system allowing access by season, time (day/night), region, and category;
— most importantly, all files are available for free use.

The content is systematically categorized into areas such as art, urban development, sports, historical landmarks, nature, and national traditions.

Materials of national significance are also compiled separately. In particular, videos related to the visits of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, as well as content dedicated to the “New Uzbekistan” concept, are available in dedicated sections.

The platform is open, allowing contributors to upload their own materials. A monetization system is planned for future implementation.

Aura.uz is an innovative media platform that presents the modern visual image of Uzbekistan to the world.

The text of the article is in Russian!

Today, civil society institutions, particularly non-governmental non-profit organizations (NGOs), play an active role in Uzbekistan's development and the implementation of the “Uzbekistan – 2030” strategy. It is impossible to build a new Uzbekistan without organizing the activities of NGOs, the most important institution of civil society, according to democratic principles. On this basis, effective work is being done to support NGOs and civil society institutions, strengthen social partnerships with state bodies, implement effective public oversight, and improve the legal framework governing this area.

As a result of the measures implemented, the legal and regulatory framework has been improved to provide legal guarantees for NGOs while also meeting modern democratic requirements and international standards. The laws "On non-governmental non-profit organizations," "On guarantees for the activities of non-governmental non-profit organizations," and "On public oversight," as well as the Presidential Decree "On approval of the civil society development concept for the period 2021-2025" and a number of Governmental decrees, have all been adopted.

The civil society development concept for the period 2021-2025 aims to increase state support for civil society institutions in the form of subsidies, grants, and social orders by 1.8 times, as well as increase the volume of allocated funds to 70 billion soums by 2025.

A number of goals, objectives, and indicators related to the further development of civil society are set out in conceptually significant documents such as the Strategy for Action, the Development Strategy of New Uzbekistan for 2022-2026, and the "Uzbekistan - 2030" Strategy. Upon that basis, it is worth noting that the State programmes adopted annually include provisions for further strengthening the activities of civil society institutions and NGOs.

The chapter titled "Civil society institutions" and the term itself were included for the first time in the new version of the Constitution adopted through a referendum in 2023.

It should be mentioned that the President of Uzbekistan prioritizes civil society institutions and NGOs in his publications, speeches, and reports. Shavkat Mirziyoyev's book titled "Strategy of New Uzbekistan" includes a separate paragraph titled "Free and Open Civil Society" and it includes comments on priority areas for civil society development as well as proposals for implementing a number of tasks based on a thorough examination of relevant national legislation, law enforcement practice, and best foreign experience.

According to the figures, there were only 95 NGOs operating in the country on January 1, 1991; by January 1, 2000, there were 2,585, by January 1, 2016, there were 8,417, and by January 1, 2024, there were over 9,000. These NGOs are critical in protecting individuals' and legal entities' rights and legitimate interests, as well as democratic values and the achievement of social, cultural, and educational objectives. 

It is also important to note the dynamic growth of support and financial sustainability provided by NGOs. In particular, 513.8 billion soums were allocated from the state budget to support 2,074 NGOs and other civil society institutions between 2017 and 2023. If 12.3 billion soums were allocated in 2017, the figure was 226.4 billion in 2023. It is planned to allocate 1.8 trillion soums in 2024.

Furthermore, the scope of state support for civil society institutions has been broadened, and public funds to support civil society institutions have been established through the local Councils (Kengash) of People's Deputies. The legal basis for allocating funds from the local budget to support civil society institutions in the regions has been strengthened, and social projects are funded through these channels.

It should be acknowledged that favourable conditions are one of the most important factors in the effective operation of non-governmental organizations. In 14 regions of our republic, "Houses of non-governmental non-profit organizations" have been established, housing approximately 500 NGOs and providing them with the necessary office equipment, furniture, items, equipment, and other tools. As a result, the NGOs' problems with the building were resolved, and their socially beneficial activities were resumed. In particular, newly established NGOs carrying out their activities in socially significant spheres were accommodated in these buildings under the right of free use.

To regularly improve the knowledge and skills of NGOs' managers based on the best foreign experience, the Academy of Public Administration under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan organizes training courses on a special 72-hour training programme. To date, 367 NGO leaders and managers have attended advanced training courses. These advanced training courses are expected to train 134 NGO managers by 2024.

It should be noted that NGOs express proposals and initiatives to improve State programs and legislation in their field, as well as carry out public control measures over the implementation of Regional socioeconomic development programmes and State programmes.

As mentioned above, the 83rd goal of the “Uzbekistan – 2030” strategy prioritizes the expansion of free civil society and media activities, transforming Uzbekistan into a hub for civil society development. It specifically highlights the tasks of increasing the number of projects implemented within the framework of social partnership by at least threefold and increasing the number of NGOs participating in government programs to at least 80.

To summarize, civil society institutions and NGOs are genuine supporters of state bodies and organizations in the process of reforms, sociopolitical and socioeconomic changes, achievement of strategic goals, and serving as a social bridge between society and government.

Anvarjon Mirkomilov,

Head of Department,

Development Strategy Center

Today, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan are connected not only by a shared border and close historical and cultural ties. A common economic space is gradually emerging, built on mutual trade, industrial cooperation, joint investment, and direct ties between businesses and regions.

Over the past decade, the two countries have moved from resolving accumulated issues to implementing concrete projects. The border is becoming a link rather than a barrier, while the complementary nature of the two economies is creating new opportunities.

Drivers of Trade and Economic Cooperation

The transformation is most clearly reflected in the growth of bilateral trade. Compared with 2016, mutual trade has increased more than sevenfold. Uzbekistan’s exports have grown more than sixfold, while imports from Kyrgyzstan have increased more than ninefold. Thus, the flow of goods is expanding in both directions.

In 2025, Uzbekistan’s foreign trade turnover with Kyrgyzstan reached nearly $1.2 billion, rising by 37% year-on-year. Uzbekistan’s exports to Kyrgyzstan increased by 46.5% to $771 million, while imports reached $428 million, up nearly 23%.

The positive trend continued in 2026. In January–May, trade turnover approached $469 million, increasing by 45.5%. Uzbekistan’s exports rose by 63% to $771 million, while imports from Kyrgyzstan increased by nearly 13% to $428 million.

The structure of bilateral trade has also changed significantly in recent years. For example, while light industry products accounted for more than 50% of Uzbekistan’s exports in 2021–2022, their share declined to 19%, or $147 million, in 2025. Agricultural and food products accounted for 15%, or $112 million; machinery, equipment, and vehicles for 11%, or $87 million; and chemical products for 11%, or $81 million.

At the product level, exports are primarily composed of finished textile products, electricity, cement, mineral fertilizers, knitted fabrics, automobile bodies and components, ceramic tiles, aluminum profiles, fruit and vegetable products, and confectionery.

The quality of Uzbekistan’s export structure has also improved. The share of raw materials in exports declined from 56% in 2019 to 8.2% in 2025. Processed goods accounted for 40%, with the remainder consisting of finished products, services, and goods supplied by individuals.

Imports from Kyrgyzstan are also gaining strategic importance. In 2025, mineral and raw material products accounted for 44%, or $190 million, of imports from Kyrgyzstan. Fuel and energy products made up 26%, or $111 million, including $85 million worth of coal and lignite. Agricultural and food products accounted for 14%, or $61 million. Other significant imports included glass, natural stone, rolled metal products, tires, and packaging materials.

At the same time, considerable growth potential remains. Kyrgyzstan currently accounts for only about 1.5% of Uzbekistan’s total foreign trade turnover. This indicates that the goal set by the two countries to increase mutual trade to $2 billion by 2030 is fully achievable. However, reaching this target will require systematic efforts to diversify the range of traded goods and strengthen cooperative links that can support durable trade and investment relations.

Investment and Industrial Cooperation

Investment and industrial cooperation constitute the second major driver of economic relations between the two countries.

In 2016, only 49 enterprises with Kyrgyz capital operated in Uzbekistan. By the end of 2025, their number had reached 344, representing a sevenfold increase. As of July 1, 2026, there were already 374 such enterprises.

An important mechanism in this area is the Uzbek–Kyrgyz Development Fund, established in 2021. The fund already uses several support instruments, including investment lending, leasing, and project financing. The next stage of its development could involve expanding its portfolio and actively channeling resources into export-oriented joint ventures.

A number of joint enterprises have also been launched in recent years. These include the Kyrgyz–Uzbek Tulpar Motors automobile plant in the Chuy Region, which generates demand for metalworking, automotive components, logistics, and maintenance services.

Joint projects are also being implemented in the textile industry, household appliance manufacturing, the production of plastic and aluminum profiles, construction materials, and other sectors.

Implementation has begun on major projects such as the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway and the 1.9 MW Kambarata Hydropower Plant-1.

These projects provide a solid foundation for a new structural breakthrough in bilateral relations.

Promising Areas of Cooperation

The results achieved in trade and economic cooperation, together with the rapid economic growth of Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, create significant opportunities for further expanding bilateral economic relations.

One priority is to increase mutual trade, with a particular emphasis on products resulting from industrial cooperation. Achieving the target of $2 billion in bilateral trade will require more than simply increasing sales of finished goods. The two countries will need to expand trade in inputs intended for further processing as part of deeper cross-border value chains.

According to estimates by the Center for Economic Research and Reforms, Uzbekistan has the potential to increase exports to Kyrgyzstan of passenger vehicles and components, trucks, agricultural machinery, iron and steel products, finished textile products, polymer materials and finished plastic goods, electrical products and equipment, pharmaceuticals, and cement.

Kyrgyzstan, in turn, has the potential to increase supplies of mineral ores, plastic products, glass, natural stone, ceramic products, and environmentally friendly agricultural and food products.

A strategically important area of cooperation could be the transition to large-scale industrial collaboration through the creation of joint full-cycle production facilities and clusters in border regions.

In light industry, border regions produce more than 600 tons of raw cotton and have a cattle population of 4 million and a sheep and goat population of 6.4 million, providing a substantial raw material base. Proximity to China can also reduce the cost of purchasing synthetic raw materials for the industry.

Construction materials represent another promising area because their production is already one of the leading industrial sectors in the border regions. Kyrgyzstan is also experiencing a construction boom, with construction activity increasing 1.7 times in the first half of 2026, thereby generating additional demand for construction materials.

In the food industry, cooperation could focus on processing fruit and vegetables, meat and dairy products, and producing juices, jams, animal feed, and other food products.

In the mining sector, the two countries could develop joint projects for the exploration and development of mineral resources, including critical minerals and iron ore deposits. Such projects should aim to establish full production cycles, from extraction to the manufacture of finished products.

Additional potential for industrial cooperation and investment exists in electrical equipment, household appliances, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and automotive components, including parts, batteries, tires, and plastic and metal components.

An important consideration in this area is ensuring that products are manufactured in accordance with the standards and market requirements of the Eurasian Economic Union. This would strengthen the export potential of joint projects.

As part of their industrial cooperation agenda, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan should begin developing joint industrial projects along the route of the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway. Logistics terminals, industrial zones, warehouses, processing centers, and freight service facilities should be established along the route. This would help create a major industrial hub in the region.

Other important areas include deeper interregional and cross-border cooperation and greater support for entrepreneurship. Promising fields include e-commerce, joint entry into third-country markets, marketplaces, startup cooperation, digital payments, tourism, and workforce training for joint enterprises.

In conclusion, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan have already established a solid foundation for economic partnership. The next stage should transform quantitative growth into qualitative production integration. The two countries need to move from trading individual goods toward joint value chains, interconnected industrial cooperation networks, and a common production and logistics space.

Ruslan Abaturov,
Center for Economic Research and Reforms

Starting January 1, 2026, Value-Added Tax will be exempted for Farmers and Dehkan producers

С 1

Almost half of the population of the Republic of Uzbekistan lives in rural areas. Millions of hardworking individuals in these communities play a crucial role in ensuring the country’s food security and establishing a solid foundation for the export of agricultural products. The nation’s development cannot be limited solely to urban centers; it is equally important to ensure that life in rural and peripheral regions is comfortable and sustainable.

The care for rural residents and the stimulation of their activities merit special attention from both the state and society. Governmental support measures have become pivotal in strengthening the agricultural sector.

However, the agricultural industry still faces significant challenges, including high tax burdens and limited access to financing, which contribute to the expansion of the informal economy. According to various estimates, up to half of agricultural producers operate outside the legal framework, resulting in reduced profitability and hindering sectoral development. Without genuine incentives to transition towards a formal economy, the agrarian sector’s capacity for investment and modernization will remain constrained.

In this context, the introduction of a zero rate of Value Added Tax (VAT) starting January 1, 2026, for farmers and dehkan producers selling their own products—including vegetables, fruits, meat, milk, eggs, and other food items—is a timely and significant measure. Producers of grain and cotton are excluded from this provision, as these sectors are regulated through state-managed clusters.

The existing practice of VAT refunds on expenses related to the production of seeds, fertilizers, fuel, logistics, electricity, and other operational costs will remain in place. As a result, farmers are expected to save up to 700 billion Uzbek soms annually.

The zero VAT rate will reduce the tax burden, increase farmers’ net income, and enable the allocation of additional funds toward modernization.

According to projections, farm profitability is expected to rise from 5–7 percent to approximately 15 percent. This measure will also facilitate more accurate planning of subsidies and incentives.

Another positive impact will be the growth of domestic processing industries. When products are processed locally, demand for investment in processing facilities and export logistics chains increases, leading to job creation and improved working conditions.

The reorientation of agriculture towards food crops has been one of the strategic priorities pursued in recent years.
Areas allocated to cotton and grain cultivation are being reduced, while orchards, vineyards, and vegetable crops are being developed instead. Approximately 1,500 food production projects have already been implemented, with a total investment of around one billion dollars.

The introduction of a zero VAT rate will further stimulate processing and export activities, strengthening the potential of the agro-food sector and enhancing the competitiveness and attractiveness of its products on the international market.

For farmers and dehkans, this presents an opportunity to retain a significant portion of their income. The savings can be directed towards farm development, improving working and living conditions, and modernizing production processes. Rural areas will benefit from job creation, technology influx, higher product quality, and a favorable environment for sustainable development.

For the state, this translates into a reduction of the shadow economy, increased transparency in reporting, and more accurate planning of support measures, tax incentives, and development programs. For society at large, it means access to higher quality and more affordable food products, enhanced resilience of the rural economy, and the strengthening of domestic agro-industrial value chains.

Nadira RASHIDOVA,

Member of the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis.

In connection with the advent of Eid al-Adha, the holy holiday of Eid al-Adha, which embodies such noble values as mercy, generosity, humanism and harmony, and promotes an atmosphere of mutual respect and tolerance in society, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev has received heartfelt congratulations from the heads of foreign States and governments, respected public and religious figures and heads of leading international and regional organizations.

In their messages, they express to the head of our state and the multinational people of Uzbekistan words of sincere respect, wishes for peace, well-being and prosperity, as well as reaffirm their commitment to the full strengthening of relations of friendship and multifaceted cooperation.



Congratulations, in particular, were sent to:

The Minister, Two Holy Shrines, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia;

Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Chairman of the Council of Ministers of Saudi Arabia;

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan of the Republic of Turkey;

Abdelfattah Al-Sisi, President of the Arab Republic of Egypt;

President of the Republic of Kazakhstan Kassym-Jomart Tokayev;

President of the Kyrgyz Republic Sadyr Zhaparov;

President of the Republic of Tajikistan Emomali Rahmon;

President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov;

National leader of the Turkmen people, Chairman of the Khalk Maslakhaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov;

Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan;

Sheikh Muhammad bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates;

Vice President, Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates, Ruler of the Emirate of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum;

Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Presidential Affairs of the United Arab Emirates;

Shaikh Seif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Interior of the United Arab Emirates;

Turki bin Muhammad bin Fahd bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Minister of State and member of the Council of Ministers of Saudi Arabia;

Emir of the State of Kuwait Mishaal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah;

Crown Prince of the State of Kuwait Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Muborak Al-Sabah;

King Abdullah II of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan;

King Muhammad VI of Morocco;

Abdelmajid Tebboun, President of the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria;

Mahmoud Abbas, President of the State of Palestine;

Secretary General of the Organization of Turkic States Kubanychbek Omuraliev;

Secretary General of the Economic Cooperation Organization, Khusraw Noziri;

Secretary General of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation Hussein Ibrohim Taha;

Sheikh-ul-Islam Allahshukur Pashazade, Chairman of the Caucasus Muslims Board.

Congratulations continue to pour in.

The Director of the Institute for Strategic and Regional Studies under the President of Uzbekistan (ISRS) Eldor Aripov, commented to Dunyo IA on President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s Address to the Oliy Majlis and the people of Uzbekistan:

- The Address of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to the Oliy Majlis and the people of Uzbekistan goes far beyond the scope of a routine annual political speech in its significance. It constitutes a strategic policy document that marks the country’s transition to a qualitatively new stage of development — the institutional consolidation of reforms and the formation of a sustainable growth model oriented toward the long term.

Over the past decade, Uzbekistan’s economy has undergone an accelerated process of qualitative and systemic transformation. While in the mid-2010s the country’s nominal gross domestic product stood at approximately USD 60–65 billion, it has now reached USD 145 billion, as noted in the President’s Address. In practical terms, this represents more than a twofold expansion of the nation’s economic scale over an unprecedentedly short historical period.

In recent years, average annual economic growth has consistently remained at around six percent. This reflects not only the preservation of positive momentum, but also the economy’s capacity for sustained growth amid external shocks — including the pandemic, disruptions to raw material supplies and logistics chains, and global inflationary pressures.

Sectoral indicators corroborate this assessment. Over the past decade, industrial output has more than doubled, whereas in the early 2010s industry played a largely auxiliary role relative to the commodity-based and agricultural sectors. Today, mechanical engineering, the electrical equipment industry, and the chemical sector make a stable contribution to the economy, while the share of processing and manufacturing activities in the GDP structure has already exceeded 80 percent.

The dynamics of the agricultural sector are equally indicative. Whereas ten years ago production volumes remained the primary benchmark, today — as emphasized in the President’s Address — the priority has shifted toward processing and the export of finished products. The expansion of fruit and vegetable processing and the growth of food exports are shaping a more resilient development model, reducing the economy’s dependence on fluctuations in harvest yields and prices.

Investment dynamics also reflect qualitative change. In recent years, investment in fixed capital has been growing at a rapid pace and has reached levels well above historical averages, whereas in the early 2010s this indicator was significantly lower. At the same time, the composition of investment has shifted: while previously it was concentrated primarily in infrastructure and state-led projects, a substantial share is now being directed toward industry, energy, transport, and digital solutions. As a result, investment is beginning to support not only current growth, but also the formation of the country’s future productive base.

External trade dynamics further reinforce this picture. Over the past decade, Uzbekistan’s export revenues have more than doubled: whereas in the mid-2010s exports of goods and services stood at approximately USD 12–13 billion, in recent years they have consistently exceeded USD 24–25 billion. Crucially, this growth has been driven not only by favorable price conditions, but also by changes in the structure of export supplies.

This transformation is most clearly visible in the manufacturing and processing industries. Over the past decade, exports of textile products have increased more than threefold — from less than $1 billion to around $3 billion and above — reflecting a shift from raw-material exports to finished goods. A similar trajectory can be observed in the electrical engineering, chemical, and food industries, where export volumes have risen several times over as a result of expanded production chains and access to new markets.

Macroeconomic balance warrants particular attention. Economic and investment growth has been accompanied by the maintenance of a controlled level of public debt and overall financial stability. This is especially significant, as recent experience shows that rapid growth without adequate balance often leads to the accumulation of constraints on future development. The Address underscores that Uzbekistan has deliberately chosen a more cautious, yet strategically advantageous, development trajectory.

A comparison of developments over the past decade leads to a key strategic conclusion: the republic has reached a stage at which further progress is determined less by the sheer size of the economy than by its quality. This is why the President’s Address places central emphasis on boosting labor productivity, advancing technological modernization, and deepening industrialization. The achievements to date are viewed as the foundation upon which the economy of the coming decade is to be built.

Compared with the starting point a decade ago, the country’s economy has become larger, more diversified, and more resilient. These changes provide a long-term strategic foundation for improving citizens’ well-being and strengthening Uzbekistan’s position in both regional and global markets.

Another notable aspect of the President’s Address is its clear illustration of the feedback loop between the state and its citizens, particularly in terms of aligning ongoing reforms with the everyday needs of the population.

An analysis of the Address indicates that its priorities fully align with the issues consistently highlighted in public opinion surveys and citizen appeals over recent years. At the center of attention are employment, income levels, access to social services, the quality of education and healthcare, as well as fairness and efficiency in public governance.

Whereas in 2017–2018 poverty in Uzbekistan was measured in double digits (around 35 percent), by 2024 it had fallen to 8.9 percent.

The projected reduction to 5.8 percent in 2025 demonstrates that the country is not only approaching the previously set target — reducing poverty to six percent by the end of the year — but is actually surpassing it.

Moreover, the Address highlights a strategic goal of eradicating extreme poverty by 2030, making the fight against poverty a central pillar of the country’s long-term policy framework. This achievement has been made possible through the effective implementation of a series of social programs and reforms aimed at sustainably increasing household incomes, creating employment opportunities, and strengthening social protection.

For a significant portion of the population, particularly young people and residents of regional areas, access to stable employment and reliable sources of income is the key determinant of social well-being. Support for small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as the development of industry and infrastructure highlighted in the Address, directly responds to these expectations. International organizations, including UNDP and the Asian Development Bank, note in their studies that such a focus on employment is among the most effective tools for social stabilization.

Equally important as an indicator that the state listens to its citizens is its focus on the quality of basic services. In the Address, education, healthcare, and workforce development are presented as strategic priorities rather than secondary concerns. This aligns with the public’s expressed demand for improvements in human capital and social mobility.

The section on public governance also warrants special attention. In recent years, one of the most frequent requests from citizens has been the reduction of bureaucracy and the enhancement of transparency and accountability among officials.

Taken together, the content of the Address suggests that the state demonstrates the ability to listen to its citizens and translate public expectations into elements of strategic policy.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev plays a particularly important role in this process as the key architect of these reforms. International financial and analytical institutions have repeatedly emphasized that political leadership is a decisive factor in the successful implementation of comprehensive reforms in countries with transitioning economies.

In Uzbekistan’s case, consistency, political will, and a focus on long-term results have made it possible to synchronize macroeconomic stabilization, social policy, and institutional reforms within a single strategic framework. The President’s Address serves both as a concentrated expression of this strategy and as a tool for its further deepening.

Taken together, the President’s Address to the Oliy Majlis and the people of Uzbekistan constitutes not merely an agenda for the next stage of reforms, but a strategic framework for the country’s future development. Supported by empirical data and assessments from leading international organizations, it strengthens domestic consensus and enhances the confidence of the international community. Its key significance lies precisely in its role as a document that defines the sustainability of reforms and the country’s long-term competitiveness.

Dunyo IA

At the invitation of President of the French Republic Emmanuel Macron, President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev will pay a state visit to this country on March 11-13.

The agenda of the visit to Paris envisages talks and events at the highest level, as well as a number of meetings with official and business circles of France.

The agenda of the upcoming contacts includes issues of further development and strengthening of Uzbek-French multifaceted relations.

Priority attention will be given to expanding mutually beneficial cooperation in trade-economic and investment-financial spheres, promoting cooperation projects with leading companies and enterprises of France.

It is planned to adopt a package of intergovernmental and interdepartmental agreements as a result of the summit.

In addition, the Head of our state will meet with UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay to discuss practical aspects of preparing and holding the 43rd session of the Organization's General Conference in Samarkand this autumn.

It is worth noting the intense program of events on the eve of the forthcoming visit.

Uzbekistan is undergoing a large-scale transformation of its social protection system, aimed at improving the well-being of its citizens and enhancing the effectiveness of social services. A key driver of this process is the national development strategy “Uzbekistan – 2030”, which focuses on the comprehensive and high-quality modernization of the country’s social policy.

In recent years, Uzbekistan has introduced innovative approaches to supporting vulnerable groups, including low-income families, the elderly, persons with disabilities, victims of violence, women in difficult situations, and children deprived of parental care.

Reforms are being implemented both at the legislative level and through specific programs and projects. A significant milestone was the establishment in 2023 of the National Agency for Social Protection (NASP) under the President of Uzbekistan – the only consolidated, ministerial-level body of its kind in the region, responsible for coordinating the implementation of a new generation of social policy.

Unlike neighboring countries, where social functions are divided among several institutions, Uzbekistan has integrated all components of social protection into a single digital system managed by NASP. This has improved coordination, efficiency, accountability, and has led to real improvements in the lives of vulnerable population groups.

In 2021, Uzbekistan ratified the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD). The country offers a range of benefits to companies and organizations that employ individuals with disabilities. Many institutions, streets, and bus stops across the country are gradually being adapted to accommodate people with disabilities.

A key focus of the reforms is the development of “Inson” Social Services Centers, established in 208 districts and cities across the country. These centers operate on a one-stop-shop model and provide over 100 types of social assistance, including psychological and legal counseling, food assistance, and targeted aid for 12 categories of citizens, such as persons with disabilities, low-income families, and the elderly.

All centers are fully digitized, integrated with state systems, and operate on an individualized support model. Each citizen undergoes a needs assessment and receives a personalized support plan with ongoing guidance through the recovery or reintegration process.

In every makhalla (community unit), social workers are assigned based on a tiered “region–district–makhalla” structure, according to the number of families and individuals in need.

In the second quarter of the year 2025, 1.787 million applications were submitted to “Inson” Centers. Of these, 1.204 million were processed, while 496,200 are under review. The most in-demand services include compensation for gas and electricity costs, child benefits, support for low-income families, and access to health resorts for seniors and persons with disabilities.

The “From Poverty to Prosperity” program, enacted by Presidential Decree on September 23, 2024, addresses issues of social orphanhood and care for children deprived of parental care. It focuses on the creation of conditions as close as possible to a family environment and on an individual approach to each child. Accordingly, measures have been developed to place such children in foster care and provide them with social services. In particular, priority is given to preserving the family setting when placing a child in foster care. The main forms of placement are guardianship, custody, or adoption. Placement in a specialized institution is considered only as a measure of last resort.

Children with difficult life situations are temporarily placed in family orphanages within “Inson” Centers before being placed in foster care. Each child is assigned an individualized development plan, with records managed through the “Social Protection” system, which tracks both identified orphans and families willing to foster.

In this way, “Inson” Centers serve as legal representatives for such children, safeguarding their interests, monitoring living conditions, the use of support provided, and ensuring caretakers fulfill their obligations.

During his visit to the “Inson” Social Services Center in Tashkent’s Shaykhantahur district, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev emphasized: “This is a place where every persons concerns are taken care of and where they strive to make people happy. Through such a system, social justice and human dignity are established in our society”.

Special attention in Uzbekistan is given to families raising children with disabilities. As part of a public-private partnership, a specialized center “Imkoniyatlar Olami” (“World of Opportunities”) was created to provide services to children from birth to three years of age. Previously, such infants were exclusively under the care of their parents, and were admitted to specialized institutions only from the age of three. Now, if a risk of disability is identified during pregnancy, expectant mothers can receive help and counseling here, which will strengthen the care of the child. Psychological support is also provided.

Starting March 1, 2025, a day care services for children with disabilities aged 3 to 18 began operating under a public-private partnership model. It offers a wide range of services – social, rehabilitative, educational, and more. The initiative by NASP aims to support children’s social adaptation and enables parents, previously unable to work due to caregiving responsibilities, to return to employment.

A pilot project in Tashkent – the private kindergarten “Wunderkind” in the Yashnabad district successfully operates such a day care service, offering pedagogical, social, and rehabilitative care for children with special needs.

Another example is Family-type home No. 1 in the Mirzo-Ulugbek district. It currently houses nine children – seven with various medical conditions (Down syndrome, dysplasia, anemia, heart defects), and two without. Education and care are customized: three attend specialized kindergartens, three go to general kindergartens, and three are home-schooled.

The home emphasizes individualized care, love, and a nurturing environment that replicates family life. Caregivers follow development plans and integration programs tailored to each child’s needs and capabilities.

“Children choose their meals and even help prepare them, fostering responsibility and independence”, one caregiver noted.

Currently, nine such homes operate across Uzbekistan – five in Tashkent, two in Kashkadarya, and two in Samarkand.

In accordance with the Presidential Decree “On measures to expand the scope of social services provided to individuals in need of care”, the “Step Towards an Active Life” program is being implemented. Under this initiative, adults with disabilities or those requiring constant care receive free social services through vouchers. These include home-based care, supervision, assistance with hygiene, meals, and psychological support.

An example of the program’s implementation is a center located in the Nodirabegim makhalla of Mirzo-Ulugbek district. It has capacity for nine people and currently serves seven. The center is staffed by five experienced professionals.

Iroda Khamidova, a primary school teacher at Wunderkind:

“Our special day care center for children with disabilities, designed for nine children, currently serves seven. Two caregivers and an assistant are assigned to them. The center operates five days a week for nine hours a day and includes a psychological service.

Educators focus on building essential skills such as holding a spoon or expressing creativity with a pencil. The center was established under a Presidential initiative to support children with special needs.

Here, we’ve created all necessary conditions, including a psychologist’s office where not only children but also parents receive consultations and moral support. Seeing their child in a safe and attentive environment reassures them”.

Farhod Kamilov, Chief Specialist of NASP’s Department for the Development of Medical and Social Services for Persons with Disabilities:

“From March 1, 2025, we launched a pilot day care service in seven regions of Uzbekistan, including Tashkent.

By October 1, we plan to expand the service nationwide. Agreements with entrepreneurs in all districts have already been signed as part of public-private partnerships.

Currently, the day care program covers 1,200 children. We believe it is essential to raise public awareness about their specific needs.

Territorial NASP offices operate psychological, medical, and pedagogical commissions. They conduct comprehensive assessments of children with special educational needs and recommend the most suitable path – inclusive, special, or day care service.

It is important to understand that day care is not an educational institution; it focuses solely on caregiving and development. The entrepreneur provides 9-hour daily care, allowing parents to work or do other things.

With mutual agreement, it may be extended up to 12 hours, but the child must always return home to their family.

Our main goal is to reduce, or ideally eliminate, the need for residential care institutions. That is why these day care services were created. Our main goal is to reduce or ideally prevent the placement of children in long-term institutional care. It is with this purpose that such day care services have been established”.

 Dunyo IA

Given the recent geopolitical instability observed around the world, one of the top priorities for every sovereign state is to ensure the security and continuity of its foreign trade routes.

For Uzbekistan, located at the geopolitical center of Central Asia, it is strategically important to maintain the continuous and stable operation of transport and logistics corridors with European countries, which account for a significant share of its foreign trade. It should be noted that in 2025, the volume of Uzbekistan’s international freight traffic with European countries amounted to 1.5 million tons, which is 29% more than in 2024.

Today, the Middle Corridor serves as a safe and reliable transport corridor for export shipments to Europe or import shipments from Europe via land transport. Azerbaijan is one of the most important hubs of the Middle Corridor. In January–March 2026, the volume of international freight traffic between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan amounted to 28,300 tons, which is 2.9 times more than during the same period in 2025.

Overall, over the past five years, the volume of Uzbek cargo transported via the Middle Corridor has doubled, reaching 1.2 million tons by the end of 2025. While in 2021 the share of cargo transported via this corridor with EU countries was 12%, by the end of 2025 this figure had reached 28%.

Due to its geographical location, Azerbaijan serves as a natural bridge connecting Central Asia to the Caucasus region and Turkey via the Caspian Sea. It will enable the reception of export cargo from the East (China, Central Asia, including Uzbekistan) and its direct shipment to European markets via the ports of Poti and Batumi in Georgia and Mersin and Ambarli in Turkey.

Today, bilateral and multilateral cooperation in the transport and logistics sector has been established between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan. This cooperation makes a significant contribution not only to the development of bilateral relations but also to the development of the Middle Corridor, connecting the Central Asian region with Europe.

Recent reports by prestigious international financial institutions, such as the World Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, dedicated to studying the potential of the “Middle Corridor,” have analyzed a number of obstacles that reduce the corridor’s effectiveness. In particular, international experts note that one of the main challenges to the corridor’s development is the disparity in digitalization levels among transit countries, the lack of a unified platform for information exchange, and the persistence of paper-based bureaucratic processes at border and customs checkpoints.

It is precisely to address these systemic challenges in practice and increase the capacity of the “Middle Corridor” between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan that active and exemplary digital integration processes have been established. In particular, the “E-TIR” system has been successfully implemented, streamlining customs procedures between the two countries and reducing the human factor. Additionally, in the field of international road transport, efforts are actively underway to fully transition to the paperless “E-PERMIT” system.

Furthermore, Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan are implementing the necessary measures to develop freight transport within the “Asia-Pacific Region – China – Kyrgyzstan – Uzbekistan – Turkmenistan – Azerbaijan – Turkey – Europe” (CASCA+) framework for multimodal transport along the Middle Corridor. In 2025, 6,722 TEU container shipments were carried out on this international route, which is 47% more than in 2024. Preferential rates have also been established for this route for 2026, and a further increase in transport volumes is expected.

It should be noted that the railway administrations of Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan are the initiators and active participants in the implementation of a set of measures aimed at developing the “Middle Corridor” transport and logistics network. In particular, to further expand the potential of this corridor, a multilateral meeting was held in 2024 between the railway authorities of Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkey, and Tajikistan. Following these negotiations, an institutional platform—the “Eurasian Transport Route” Association—was established to accelerate freight transportation processes and create a mechanism for the prompt removal of logistical barriers arising within the system.

In conclusion, it should be noted that the strategic partnership between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan in the transport and logistics sector contributes not only to the stabilization of the two countries’ foreign trade turnover but also to the integration of the entire Central Asian region into the international supply chain. The implementation of digital solutions that eliminate bureaucratic barriers, the diversification of multimodal routes, and the strengthening of institutional mechanisms will further enhance the international transit appeal of the “Middle Corridor.” This, in turn, will increase the resilience of Uzbekistan’s economy to external shocks amid global geopolitical changes and serve as a solid guarantee for the safe and uninterrupted conduct of international transport operations.

Dear participants of the conference!

Ladies and gentlemen!

First of all, from the bottom of my heart, I sincerely congratulate you, my dear ones, on the opening of today's prestigious event - the joint conference of the International Textile Federation and the International Association of Apparel Manufacturers.

I would like to express my special gratitude to the President of the International Federation of Textile Manufacturers Mr. Kei Vi Srinavasan and President of the International Association of Apparel Manufacturers Mr. Chem Altan for the fact that this joint conference is being held in Uzbekistan for the first time.

At the same time, I express my sincere gratitude to the high-ranking representatives of the industry, heads of prestigious international and regional organizations participating in this conference.

Welcome to the pearl of the ancient Great Silk Road, the land of craftsmen - the majestic city of Samarkand!

Dear participants of the conference!

In recent years we have taken decisive steps to radically improve the investment and business environment, create favorable conditions for foreign and domestic investors.

As in all spheres and sectors, we have been implementing large-scale reforms in the textile and garment industries.

First of all, the state monopoly in cotton cultivation has been abolished, and a cluster system has been created and is being consistently improved, covering the entire process from raw material procurement to the production of finished goods.

Our reforms in this area have won the recognition of prestigious international organizations, and the boycott of Uzbek cotton has been lifted. Our cooperation with the international coalition “Cotton Campaign” continues in this direction.

At the same time, as a result of creating a stable legislative framework, improving the investment environment and introducing new technologies, the volume of cotton fiber processing increased from 40 percent in 2017 to 100 percent. At the same time, the work on import of cotton raw materials and production of finished products with high added value began.

Thanks to the opportunities created in the sphere, the volume of textile production has increased 5 times, its export - 4 times.

The most important thing is that earlier a significant part, i.e. 70 percent of exports in the sector, was accounted for raw materials, while today 60 percent of exported goods are finished products.

In the first years of reforms, we identified as a priority task the development of human capital, training of the population, especially young people and women, in professions, training of qualified personnel for all sectors, and these issues will continue to be in the center of our attention.

Decent working conditions that meet international requirements are created for the employees of enterprises, and the “Better Work” and “Better Cotton” programs are systematically implemented.

Particular attention is paid to ensuring labor rights and providing full support to over 600,000 workers.

At the same time, decisive measures are taken to create national brands, attract prestigious international and foreign trademarks to our country.

Authoritative participants of the world market, such as “Teamdress” (Germany), “Cotonella” (Italy), “Indorama” (Singapore), “Posco International” and “Gwangyang” (South Korea) are effectively operating in the country.

Uzbekistan's textile industry is being actively integrated into global production processes, and the number of our reliable partners on all continents of the world is increasing.

It should be noted that long-term cooperation with foreign investors and international brands, increasing production of high value-added products, bringing national brands to the international level will remain our priorities in the textile industry in the future.

I am convinced that today's conference will serve as an effective platform for further strengthening and expanding cooperation in this area on an international scale, sharing best practices and ideas.

I hope it will contribute to further expansion of mutually beneficial cooperation between representatives of more than 500 national and international organizations, manufacturers and retailers participating in the conference, and will bring the development of the industry to a qualitatively new level.

We highly appreciate and support all mutually beneficial initiatives of our foreign partners. In particular, we are ready to provide all possible assistance in introducing the necessary standards for international brands to enter Uzbekistan.

We are ready to create all necessary conditions for prestigious international organizations to regularly hold conferences, exhibitions and fashion shows in our country, particularly in such cities as Bukhara, Khiva, Shakhrisabz, Margilan, Kokand, Namangan, Andijan, which have high tourism and industrial potential.

I am confident that the ancient history, rich cultural heritage of our country, meetings with our hard-working and generous people will make an indelible impression on you, and the huge socio-economic potential of our regions will encourage investors to implement new projects.

I congratulate you once again on the opening of the prestigious conference that is starting today and wish you all good health, happiness and prosperity, success in the fruitful work of the conference.


Shavkat Mirziyoyev,

President of the Republic of Uzbekistan