Malaysia, Uzbekistan Expand Agricultural Cooperation

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Uzbekistan and Malaysia have agreed to expand strategic cooperation in agriculture and the agro-industrial sector.

The agreement was reached during a meeting in Tashkent between Malaysian Minister of Agriculture and Food Security Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu and Uzbekistan’s Minister of Agriculture Ibrahim Abdurakhmonov.

According to Malaysia’s Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, the two sides plan to develop cooperation in aquaculture, sustainable irrigation technologies, as well as research and development activities.

Food security and the introduction of modern technologies to improve agricultural efficiency were also among the key topics of discussion.

Malaysian data shows that bilateral agricultural trade reached 338.48 million Malaysian ringgit in 2025. Malaysia exported coffee, cocoa, tea, spices and processed food products to Uzbekistan. Uzbekistan’s main exports included fruits and vegetables, including grapes.

During the talks, Mohamad Sabu said Malaysia is ready to share its experience in aquaculture, seafood production and quality control systems. Particular attention was given to biofloc technology, which is used to improve fish farming efficiency in conditions of limited resources and space.

Uzbekistan expressed interest in attracting Malaysian technologies, investment and expert support to develop its fisheries sector, increase food production and strengthen regional food security.

The two sides also agreed to prioritize digital transformation in agriculture. This includes the introduction of artificial intelligence-based solutions, development of digital farming and improvement of water resource management systems.

Separately, preparations are underway for a memorandum of understanding between Malaysia’s Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI) and Uzbekistan’s National Centre of Knowledge and Innovation in Agriculture (AKIS), aimed at supporting joint research projects.

Beyond government-level cooperation, both sides expressed support for expanding direct contacts between companies and industry associations. Malaysia also invited Uzbek representatives to participate in the MAHA 2026 international agriculture, horticulture and agritourism exhibition, scheduled for 28 August to 6 September.

During his visit to Uzbekistan, Mohamad Sabu took part in the launch of Malaysian company Meraque Group’s operations in the country. He is also expected to attend the Tashkent International Investment Forum, which opens on 17 June.