Mirziyoyev Outlines Growth Targets for Uzbekistan’s Textile Industry in 2026

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 23 December, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed a presentation summarizing the development of the country’s textile industry in 2025 and outlining key priorities for 2026.

The review highlighted annual results, production and export dynamics, and plans for further development. In 2025, textile production reached 134 trillion soums, foreign investment amounted to US$2.1 billion, and exports grew to US$2.5 billion. The sector employed 623,000 people, with projections indicating that this number could rise to 650,000 in 2026.

For 2026, the goals include deepening the processing of cotton fiber and increasing the utilization of capacities for the production of fabrics, knitwear, and finished goods. Production is expected to reach 147 trillion soums, while exports are targeted at US$3.3 billion. The sector aims to attract US$2.2 billion in foreign investment.

Implementation of investment projects will enable the creation of additional capacities to produce 207,000 tons of synthetic and blended yarn, 397 million square meters of fabrics, 224 million units of apparel and knitwear, and to dye 108 million square meters of textiles.

Challenges to sustainable development were also identified, including partial dependence on imported cotton fiber, high financial resource costs, rising logistics expenses on external markets, and a shortage of qualified personnel in certain areas.

To address these challenges, in 2026 enterprises will be provided with concessional loans totaling US$200 million to replenish working capital, financial restructuring will be carried out for 138 companies, and an additional 100 enterprises will be engaged in export activities.

Special emphasis will be placed on implementing international standards. Better Work, BCI, FWF, and Organic EU programs will be introduced at 60 enterprises, while 15 companies will transition to International Financial Reporting Standards. Plans also include establishing a modern textile laboratory capable of conducting quality analysis in 24 directions.

Digitalization of the sector will accelerate through the introduction of ERP systems and artificial intelligence technologies at 40 enterprises. Simultaneously, measures are planned to expand international cooperation, including engagement with global sourcing companies and brands, participation in market research and international exhibitions, and encouraging the relocation of foreign production.

Approving the proposed measures, the President instructed relevant agencies to consistently increase the share of finished products, reduce their production costs, and fully leverage the investment and export potential of the light industry. According to the President, these initiatives should transform the textile industry into a sustainable and competitive system with high added value.