Central Asia and Russia Boost Industrial Cooperation Drive

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 20 April, the first meeting of ministers of industry from Central Asian countries and the Russian Federation was held in Tashkent.

The event was attended by Uzbekistan’s Minister of Investments, Industry and Trade Laziz Kudratov. The new format, initiated by Uzbekistan, is viewed as a mechanism for launching joint industrial projects.

During the meeting, it was noted that the share of industry in Uzbekistan’s GDP has reached 27%, while industrial output has doubled in recent years. Foreign economic activity has also expanded, with trade turnover with partners exceeding US$21 billion in 2025 and increasing by a further 26% in the first quarter of 2026.

Participants emphasized the need to move from traditional trade toward deeper industrial cooperation, including joint production and localization of manufacturing.

The parties proposed the development of a unified industrial cooperation program, as well as the launch of the “Young Industrial Leaders – 2030” initiative aimed at training 10,000 qualified specialists for the sector.

An expert group will also be formed to promote joint projects and initiatives in the industrial sphere.

Following the meeting, a joint communiqué was signed, formalizing agreements on the further development of industrial cooperation between the countries of the region and Russia.