Tashkent, December 4, 2024 – The Europe Today: On December 3, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev chaired a pivotal meeting focused on advancing the socio-economic development of the Fergana region, enhancing its investment climate, and fostering a robust business environment.
The meeting highlighted the significant progress achieved in Fergana over recent years. Since 2016, the number of industrial enterprises in the region has nearly tripled to 13,000, while investment projects have generated 116,000 jobs. The President emphasized the need to sustain this momentum and unlock further opportunities for growth.
Expanding Investment and Employment
President Mirziyoyev’s visit to Fergana in July provided a boost to the regional economy. In the first 10 months of this year, the region attracted $1.5 billion in foreign investment and achieved export volumes of $910 million. Looking ahead, the President identified key projects to enhance investments, create jobs, and expand exports.
- Kokand Free Economic Zone: Recently expanded by 210 hectares, the zone is expected to host 185 projects valued at $1 billion, creating approximately 12,000 jobs.
- Technopark in Kokand: The first phase of this 71-hectare development will facilitate enterprises worth $900 million and generate 5,000 jobs.
- New Industrial Zones: To accommodate forthcoming investments from China ($1 billion) and South Korea ($240 million), industrial zones totaling 1,210 hectares will be established, employing 30,000 individuals, including members of low-income families.
- Trade and Logistics Center in Beshariq: Modeled on the free trade zone in Termez, this center is projected to boost exports by $50 million and create 2,000 jobs.
Innovations in Agriculture
Agriculture was highlighted as a key sector with untapped potential. The region boasts 91,000 hectares of land suitable for enhanced production and processing. Notable initiatives include:
- Raspberry Value Chain: Expanding storage, processing, and packaging of the region’s 6,000 tons of annual raspberry production could increase its value by 2.5 times.
- Saffron and Ferula Cultivation: Plans are underway to grow ferula on 800 hectares and saffron on 50 hectares in Sokh district, leveraging underused forest land.
- Intensive Gardening: A proposal to expand irrigation infrastructure in Oltiariq district could enable the cultivation of export-oriented fruits on 1,400 hectares, yielding an additional 55,000 tons annually.
Future Goals
The Hokim of Fergana region presented ambitious objectives for 2024, including attracting $3.7 billion in investments, increasing exports to $1.5 billion, providing employment for 500,000 citizens, and lifting 22,000 families out of poverty.
President Mirziyoyev instructed regional officials to finalize proposals and draft a resolution to accelerate Fergana’s economic development. He emphasized the need to support exporters, promote job creation, and hold officials accountable for achieving these goals.
This comprehensive strategy underscores the Uzbek government’s commitment to regional development, signaling significant opportunities for local and international investors.
