Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Uzbekistan and Oman have agreed to expand agricultural trade and develop joint investment projects in the sector, Uzbekistan's Ministry of Agriculture said.
The agreement was reached during talks in Muscat between Uzbekistan's Agriculture Minister Ibrahim Abdurakhmonov and Oman's Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries Wealth and Water Resources, Dr Saud bin Hamoud bin Ahmed Al Habsi.
The sides discussed food security, trade and economic ties, and investment cooperation. They set a target of increasing bilateral food trade by two to three times from 2027.
Particular attention was given to expanding exports of products with higher added value. The sides also considered the possibility of launching direct cargo air services between Tashkent and Muscat.
Other logistics options discussed included the Middle Corridor and alternative transport routes.
Fruit exports and joint projects
Uzbekistan plans to increase supplies of fruit, vegetables, dried fruit and nuts to Oman. In return, imports of seafood and dates from Oman are expected to grow.
The sides also explored potential joint investment projects in food processing and packaging, aquaculture and organic fertiliser production.
Oman expressed interest in Uzbekistan's agricultural cluster and cooperation models, as well as its mechanisms for preferential agricultural lending, insurance and incentives to improve crop yields.
The sides proposed forming a technical group to study Uzbekistan's experience.
Technology and workforce cooperation
Uzbekistan and Oman agreed to develop cooperation in grain production, seed production, water-saving technologies and halal certification. Their agenda also included food quality and safety, scientific cooperation and workforce training.
Uzbek companies were also invited to take part in Oman's annual agricultural exhibition, held in December.
During the talks, the Uzbek delegation presented its "7D" concept for food systems. It is based on seven principles: data, diversification, design, discipline, delivery, interconnectedness and mutual respect.
The Omani side said it was ready to consider the concept as a basis for cooperation.
Following the meeting, the two sides agreed to formalise the arrangements in a memorandum of understanding and begin practical work in the agreed areas.
