The Government of Uzbekistan has proposed establishing a dedicated special economic zone (SEZ) for American companies. Laziz Kudratov, the Minister of Investment, Industry, and Trade (MIIT), announced the initiative during the U.S.–Uzbekistan Business Forum, held as part of the Tashkent International Investment Forum.
"This zone is envisioned as a launching pad for American investments, technologies, and manufacturing across Central Asia. However, it shouldn't just be a plot of land on a map. It must be a fully comprehensive business ecosystem where American companies can feel truly at home," Kudratov said.
"We intend to cultivate conditions that are as close as possible to what American firms are accustomed to domestically. This means an environment with transparent regulations, high-quality infrastructure, reliable utility supplies, streamlined bureaucratic procedures, seamless logistics, and direct government backing," the MIIT head added.
The minister invited American and Uzbek businesses to actively participate in shaping this initiative by proposing specific industries and projects for the future zone. According to him, the authorities aim to secure the first wave of investors while the zone is still in its foundational phase.
Laziz Kudratov also announced that the forum would mark the official launch of a joint investment platform designed to fund Uzbek-American ventures. The framework agreements for this initiative were signed earlier in February.
Funding is expected to be sourced primarily from U.S. financial institutions and Uzbekistani state funds. A dedicated website will be launched for the platform, outlining the criteria and evaluation procedures for project selection.
Furthermore, the minister highlighted four key sectors where Tashkent sees the greatest potential for expanding bilateral cooperation with the U.S.: critical minerals, fertilizer production, pharmaceuticals, and the textile industry.
"Uzbekistan has the potential to become a strategic investment partner for the United States. In today's shifting global supply chains, nations and corporations are actively seeking dependable partners and stable manufacturing hubs. They need secured access to raw materials and core industrial resources, and Uzbekistan is ready to be that partner for the U.S.," the minister emphasized.
In the field of critical minerals, the minister noted, collaboration has already begun with several U.S. companies. This partnership extends beyond extraction to include processing and supply chain development. He emphasized that Uzbekistan's energy potential, raw material abundance, and skilled workforce will serve as key competitive advantages.
"When it comes to fertilizer production, Uzbekistan has immense potential in both manufacturing and exporting," Laziz Kudratov said. "Given the rising global demand for fertilizers, we believe we can build robust partnerships with American firms to establish state-of-the-art production facilities targeting regional and international markets."
Turning to the pharmaceutical industry, he added that Uzbekistan is currently negotiating with U.S. companies regarding contract manufacturing. These projects will leverage the country's existing facilities, which are capable of producing medications in line with strict international standards.
"And, of course, the textile industry. We can move away from supplying raw materials toward manufacturing finished goods, developing designs and brands, creating technical textiles, and expanding exports," the minister said.
He highlighted that this year's investment forum welcomed the largest American business delegation in the history of bilateral relations. According to his data, 193 representatives from U.S. companies are participating in the events of the Tashkent International Investment Forum (TIIF).
Carolyn Lamm, Chairperson of the American-Uzbek Chamber of Commerce, stated that interest from U.S. companies continues to rise, driven by ongoing domestic reforms and strengthening bilateral ties.
"Our current and prospective members exploring investment opportunities in Uzbekistan are truly impressed by the momentum of the ongoing reforms in the country," she said.
Lamm noted that while the chamber consisted of only a few companies back in 1993, its membership has now grown to over 50 major American corporations.
The head of the chamber also announced that new U.S. investments in Uzbekistan surpassed $1 billion last year and have already exceeded $2 billion in the current year.
The U.S.–Uzbekistan Business Forum is being held on the eve of the official opening of the Tashkent International Investment Forum, which has drawn a record number of participants from more than 100 countries this year.
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