Kungrad Salt Free Zone Established in Karakalpakstan

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — A specialized industrial zone, Kungrad Salt Free Zone, is being created in the Republic of Karakalpakstan to develop salt processing.

The corresponding decree “On Measures to Develop Salt Processing in the Republic of Karakalpakstan” was signed by the President of Uzbekistan.

According to the document, at the Barsakelmes deposit in the Kungrad District, investments of at least US$50 million are planned for 2026, with total investments expected to reach approximately US$200 million during 2026–2030.

An industrial zone, Kungrad Salt Free Zone, will be established on the deposit site, focusing on deep salt processing.

In 2025–2026, the first investment projects will begin on a 50-hectare site. If necessary, the zone’s territory may be expanded to 200 hectares in the future.

Entrepreneurs who start projects in the new industrial zone will receive the status of participants in the Nukus Free Economic Zone for five years, allowing them to benefit from the tax and customs incentives provided.