Tashkent, November 21, 2024 — The Europe Today: President Shavkat Mirziyoyev presided over a high-level meeting on November 20 to review measures aimed at enhancing the socio-economic development of the Samarkand region and improving the well-being of its residents.
Strategically located in central Uzbekistan, Samarkand is renowned for its robust trade, industrial base, tourism potential, transportation networks, and agricultural activities. Building on initiatives launched during the President’s visit in August 2023, the region is now poised to reach new development milestones.
As part of the outlined strategy, consultations with local communities and entrepreneurs have paved the way for 120 projects valued at $4.1 billion. In 2024, Samarkand plans to attract $1.85 billion in investments, generate 20,000 jobs, and produce goods worth 1.2 trillion UZS under regional programs.
Among the key projects:
- Special Industrial Zone in Pastdargom District: Entrepreneurs have committed $500 million to establish an industrial zone on 234 hectares, with proposed ventures in pharmaceuticals, chemicals, electrical engineering, building materials, and food production.
- Expansion of the Urgut Free Economic Zone: By incorporating 25 hectares of land near the Zarafshan River, projects worth $30 million will be initiated, supporting the development of a tourist route along the Dargom Canal and a gastronomic bridge over the Narpay Canal.
- Tourism and Agriculture: Plans include transforming 350 hectares of dry land in Samarkand district into a recreational zone to accommodate 1,000 entrepreneurs and create 3,500 jobs. Additionally, the soil and climate of Bulungur district will be leveraged to transition 6,000 hectares of inefficient grain land to high-value fruit and vegetable cultivation, with an anticipated income of $10,000 per hectare and $52 million in export revenues.
To address agricultural challenges, including low grape yields in Ishtykhan, Urgut, Payaryk, and Koshrabot districts, the creation of an experimental station under the Scientific Institute of Horticulture and Viticulture was proposed. This initiative aims to introduce high-demand grape varieties like “Giant” and “Sirliboy,” increasing yields by 25-30 centners and boosting exports by $20 million.
Furthermore, the potential for mineral processing enterprises in Koshrabot, Ishtykhan, Nurabad, Pastdargom, Pakhtachi, and Urgut was highlighted.
During the meeting, the Hokim of Samarkand region presented measures to capitalize on untapped opportunities. President Mirziyoyev endorsed these initiatives and directed the drafting of a resolution to enhance the region’s investment climate and business environment. He emphasized the importance of adhering to the region’s master plan, creating additional jobs, developing modern housing, and advancing residents’ quality of life.
These measures underscore Uzbekistan’s commitment to balanced regional development, economic diversification, and the sustainable improvement of its citizens’ well-being.
