Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Uzbekistan and Oman are discussing the expansion of trade, investment cooperation and industrial cooperation, as well as improving transport and logistics connectivity between the two countries.
The issues were discussed by Uzbekistan’s Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade Laziz Kudratov and Oman’s Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion Anwar bin Hilal Al-Jabri.
The sides discussed measures to increase bilateral trade and expand the range of goods, as well as simplify access for Uzbek and Omani companies to the markets of the two countries.
Particular attention was paid to establishing direct contacts between exporters, buyers and importers, as well as removing barriers related to standards, certification and customs procedures.
One of the key issues was the proposed preferential trade agreement. The sides discussed accelerating technical work to determine the list of goods, tariffs and rules for determining the origin of products.
They are also considering updating the agreement on the promotion and mutual protection of investments. This is expected to create more favourable conditions for investors and expand economic cooperation.
In industrial cooperation, the sides discussed implementing joint production projects based on market demand and investment needs. They stressed the importance of direct interaction between companies to identify commercially viable projects.
Logistics was another important part of the talks. The sides considered the possibility of using Oman’s port infrastructure to develop maritime routes and facilitate the movement of goods between the two countries.
They also discussed further use of direct air services between Muscat and Tashkent to support trade and investment and expand companies’ access to markets.
Particular attention was paid to private-sector participation. In particular, the sides considered opportunities to establish export-oriented production facilities in Oman’s economic and free zones.
The sides also discussed establishing a business council and holding a business forum to present investment opportunities and establish direct contacts between companies, investors and potential partners.
The talks also focused on preparing practical outcomes for the sixth meeting of the Oman-Uzbekistan Joint Intergovernmental Committee, which will be held in Muscat.
The sides stressed the need to identify priority projects and establish clear mechanisms for further interaction to develop cooperation in trade, investment, industry and logistics.
