Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Uzbekistan and Indonesia are exploring opportunities to expand bilateral trade and implement joint investment projects in agricultural processing. The issues were discussed by Uzbekistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Jamshid Khodjaev and Indonesia’s Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan.
Bilateral trade increased by 82% in 2025, exceeding US$150 million. Khodjaev said further growth could be achieved by expanding the range of traded goods and increasing the participation of companies from both countries in joint projects.
One of the key topics was improving access for Uzbek fruit and vegetable products to the Indonesian market.
The sides discussed accelerating the phytosanitary approvals required for fruit and vegetable exports, as well as preparations for negotiations on a free trade agreement.
In the investment sphere, they considered combining Uzbekistan’s agricultural potential with the manufacturing experience of Indonesian businesses. Proposed initiatives included establishing a confectionery plant and building a grain terminal for wheat storage and processing.
The projects are expected to increase domestic processing of agricultural raw materials and expand exports of finished products, including to third countries.
To strengthen bilateral cooperation, Uzbekistan proposed resuming the work of the Intergovernmental Commission and organising a joint business forum.
Khodjaev said direct contacts between entrepreneurs, predictable business conditions and practical support for investment projects remain important prerequisites for advancing joint initiatives.
