Finnish Firms Explore New Business Opportunities in Uzbekistan

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The visit of Uzbekistan’s Foreign Minister Bakhtiyor Saidov to Finland highlighted growing alignment between Uzbekistan’s market needs and the offerings of Finnish companies, according to EastCham.

Uzbekistan’s reform-driven policies, stable economic growth, and rising population are creating new opportunities for business development. Central Asia is emerging as a regional economic hub, with Uzbekistan, home to about 40 million people, representing half of the region’s 80-million-strong market.

“Central Asia is becoming a magnet for capital and technology, where new production and logistics chains are forming. This region offers space for partners capable of long-term engagement and turning innovation into competitive advantages,” Saidov emphasized.

Uzbekistan is modernizing its industry, energy sector, waste management systems, digital infrastructure, and vocational education. These initiatives provide Finnish companies with opportunities for technology exports, as well as the establishment of local service centers and joint ventures.

During the visit to Etelä-Suomi, EastCham hosted a roundtable to discuss collaboration between Finnish and Uzbek businesses. Finland is recognized as a reliable partner due to its stability, energy-efficient infrastructure, and high-quality technologies.

Priority areas for cooperation include transport networks, digitalization, sustainable water and energy solutions, industrial projects, critical raw materials, and education.

“Finland’s strengths build trust and enable support for Uzbekistan’s ambitious development goals,” said Petri Vuorio, director of the Finnish Confederation of Industry.

EastCham assists foreign companies entering Central Asian markets by providing training, consulting, market information, and professional contacts. Senior business consultant Altyn Shakirkhanova, head of the Almaty office in Kazakhstan, serves as the point of contact for companies seeking engagement with Finnish partners and regional markets.