Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Uzbekistan has prepared 12 potential projects worth a total of US$850 million to localise the production of energy equipment that is currently largely imported. The projects were announced on 16 October during President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s open dialogue with investors in the fuel and energy sector.
The projects envisage the production of high-voltage equipment, control modules for energy storage systems and components for wind turbines.
Local goods and services worth US$740 million annually
The total value of locally produced goods and services used in energy sector investment projects reached US$740 million last year. According to the president, this figure could be increased threefold to fourfold.
As an example, Mirziyoyev cited China’s Energy China, which used locally manufactured products for around 40% of the equipment and materials involved in constructing eight energy storage facilities.
The Agency for Industrial Cooperation, sectoral associations and enterprises will jointly determine the volumes and quality requirements for products needed by investors and organise systematic supplies.
Demand for copper, cables and transformers
The president noted that energy projects are generating strong demand for copper products. He said Uzbekistan is among the world’s leading copper producers.
Project implementation is also increasing demand for cables, transformers, metal structures and construction materials. Mirziyoyev said local manufacturers could compete in terms of quality, price and compliance with international standards.
Industrial zone near future nuclear power plant
A special industrial zone with tax and customs incentives will be established in Farish District of Jizzakh Region, at the site where a nuclear power plant is to be built. The zone will focus on manufacturing new types of products required for the nuclear power plant.
The president invited international investors to participate in these projects.
Potential for partnership
Mirziyoyev stressed that Uzbekistan is entering international partnerships with its own strengths, including natural resources, industrial enterprises, engineers and an educated young population. He said combining these assets with the technology, capital and experience of foreign partners would make it possible to generate greater added value.
According to the president, the economic rationale behind the O‘z approach lies in developing domestic capabilities, building partnerships with the international community on an equal footing and taking responsibility for a shared future.
