Uzbekistan and ADB Discuss Special Economic Zone Modernization

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 21 May, Uzbekistan’s Minister of Investments, Industry and Trade Laziz Kudratov held talks with a delegation of the Asian Development Bank led by Navendu Karan and Kanokpan Lao-Araya.

During the negotiations, the sides discussed the preparation of a new program for the modernization of special economic zones using the Results-Based Lending (RBL) mechanism. The project is aimed at transforming SEZs into competitive and export-oriented production platforms.

It was noted that Uzbekistan currently has 47 special economic zones covering a total area of 13,400 hectares. The country is implementing programs to develop infrastructure and improve the management system of SEZs.

The meeting also addressed the introduction of public-private partnership mechanisms, digital monitoring systems, environmental standards, and ESG frameworks.

Particular attention was given to the creation of energy-efficient economic zones and their integration into global production chains.

Following the talks, the sides agreed to accelerate the preparation of the program for the formation of next-generation special economic zones.