Uzbekistan, Serbia expand agricultural cooperation

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Uzbekistan and Serbia are expanding practical cooperation in the agro-industrial sector, with a working visit by representatives of Uzbek small and medium-sized businesses specializing in freeze-dried fruit and dried prunes taking place in Serbia from 17 to 21 August.

The mission was organized by the International Trade Centre (ITC) under the Trade Promotion East programme, with support from Uzbekistan's Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade.

The main objective of the programme is to strengthen the technological and export capabilities of domestic producers. During the visit, entrepreneurs are studying modern freeze-drying and prune production methods, post-harvest processing technologies, quality control systems, packaging solutions, and approaches to developing and promoting brands.

The programme began in Belgrade with a meeting at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia. The Uzbek delegation was introduced to experience in developing export-oriented agricultural production, as well as mechanisms for cooperation between businesses, industry associations and government institutions.

The entrepreneurs are also visiting Serbian companies and research organizations involved in the processing and production of fruit and vegetable products. The programme includes visits to Zafruit, FRIKOS, ELBI (LyoCake), Podgorina Fruct, Jovanović Voće, Processing TM, Agro Corp Duo and the Fruit Research Institute in Čačak.

At production and research facilities, participants are studying fruit drying and processing technologies, quality control systems, modern packaging solutions and the organization of supplies to foreign markets. Practical sessions are complemented by expert discussions on food safety, innovation and increasing the added value of products.

The knowledge gained during the visit is planned to be used to further develop the export activities of Uzbek companies. The next stage will involve business meetings with foreign buyers and partners.

B2B meetings with importers and distributors are scheduled for 22 August in Zagreb and 24 August in Ljubljana. Uzbek companies will be able to present their products, discuss European buyers' requirements and explore opportunities to enter new foreign markets.

The programme therefore combines technological training for producers with the search for potential partners and new sales channels.

For participating companies, this creates opportunities to improve the competitiveness of fruit and vegetable products, introduce modern production methods and expand their presence in export markets.