Uzbekistan Expands Export Opportunities in the Iraqi and Syrian Markets

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Broad export opportunities are opening up for Uzbek businesses in the Iraqi and Syrian markets, Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) of Uzbekistan Davron Vakhabov said following a visit by an Uzbek delegation to both countries in late December.

According to Vakhabov, Iraq annually imports goods worth around US$93 billion. The local market offers potential for supplies of Uzbek products—including electrical equipment and construction materials—worth up to US$1 billion, which is twenty times higher than the current export level of US$50 million.

Vakhabov expressed confidence that, with sufficient effort, exports to Iraq could reach US$500 million as early as 2026.

Particular attention was paid to the city of Erbil in northern Iraq, which, due to its duty-free status, is becoming an important hub for supplies not only to the Iraqi market but also to neighboring countries, including Syria.

During talks with President of the Erbil Chamber of Commerce and Industry Gailan Haji Said, the parties signed a memorandum of cooperation and agreed to establish the “Uzbekistan–Erbil” Business Council, bringing together 20 business representatives from each side.

The Syrian market is also seeing demand for a wide range of products, including foodstuffs, electrical appliances, vehicles, spare parts, and lubricants.

According to Vakhabov’s estimates, Uzbek companies could export goods to Syria worth US$100–150 million over the next year. Delivery of trucks carrying electronics to Baghdad takes about 10 working days and costs around US$3,300, while delivery to Damascus takes approximately 20 days at a cost of US$4,500.

In addition, the possibility of using Iraq and Syria as transit routes for road freight shipments to Saudi Arabia and Jordan is being considered.

During the visit, which took place from December 22 to 28, the Uzbek delegation held talks with Iraqi Deputy Minister of Trade Ghassan Hamid, discussing the simplification of logistics and customs procedures, the reduction of trade barriers, as well as the standardization and certification of goods.

It was decided to support Uzbek companies’ participation in an international exhibition in Baghdad scheduled for February 1–7.

In Damascus, the delegation met with President of the Syrian Federation of Chambers of Commerce Alaa Omar Al-Ali and Director General Mohammad Amir Al-Khomisi.

The discussions focused on developing trade and economic ties, establishing direct business contacts, and attracting investment for post-conflict industrial recovery. The parties agreed on a visit by a Syrian business delegation to Uzbekistan in early 2026, as well as on holding a business forum and B2B meetings to foster direct cooperation.

The Uzbek delegation included Uzbekistan’s Ambassador to Kuwait and Iraq Ayubkhon Yunusov, Deputy Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade Shohrukh Gulyamov, and representatives of 25 leading Uzbek companies.

According to the CCI, the visit laid the groundwork for expanding exports and strengthening business ties with regions of the Middle East.