On March 12, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev got acquainted with the presentation of proposals to expand the activities of entrepreneurs and involve them in exports.
The President spoke about the need for this at a videoconference meeting held on December 18, 2023. Subsequently, the new approaches were developed based on entrepreneurs’ proposals and with experts’ participation.
The analysis showed that last year, exporting enterprises received assistance worth 665 billion Uzbek soums, which ensured exports worth $3 billion 200 million. However, these funds were not used effectively in some industries and regions. In the sectors of electrical engineering, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and jewelry, exports did not reach average levels. Industry associations did not reach 2,709 potential exporters with support.
In this regard, production issues in the regions, industrial zones, and exports will be united into a single system. It was proposed that 12 sectoral and industrial associations would be transferred to the Chamber of Commerce and Industry system. Through this, the issues of supporting projects and exports will move from the state to the organization of self-government of entrepreneurs. As a result, it will be easier to decide on the requirements and requests of entrepreneurs and the problems that concern them, and the interaction among the entrepreneurs will increase.
Based on the experience of developed countries, instead of an agency and funds operating in the sphere, a Trade Development Company will be established. It will attract qualified designers, technologists, and marketers from abroad to ensure domestic products comply with international requirements, help exporters enter new markets, and promote national brands abroad. This company will provide subsidies, compensation, and other types of support based on entrepreneurs’ sustainability ratings.
The interaction between the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Uzbekexpertiza JSC will be strengthened. Project offices to support entrepreneurs will begin operating in each district.
The President noted that business development is a priority of economic reforms, as well as outlined his vision of supporting entrepreneurs.
The importance of studying the relevance of associations’ functions and performance criteria and improving the qualifications of their managers and employees was emphasized. The need to organize work primarily in the regions and actively involve entrepreneurs in developing new projects and exports was noted.
The responsible officials reported on the plans to increase local industry exports to $12 billion this year.