Uzbekistan plans $1 billion investment projects in Kokand free economic zone

The Kokand Free Economic Zone (FEZ) has been identified as a prime location for 185 investment projects totaling $1 billion. These projects are expected to create approximately 12,000 jobs. Additionally, the establishment of a 71-hectare technopark in Kokand is projected to generate enterprises worth $900 million, employing 5,000 people in its initial phase.

Investment agreements with Chinese and South Korean businesses have also been finalized, amounting to $1 billion and $240 million, respectively. To support these projects, 1,210 hectares of industrial zones will be developed, with future enterprises creating jobs for 30,000 individuals.

The Fergana region is also set to develop a trade and logistics center in the Besharik district, modeled after the Termez Free Trade Zone. The center will feature retail spaces leased to entrepreneurs, boosting the region’s exports by $50 million and creating 2,000 jobs. A similar complex is planned for Kuvasay.

Agriculture remains a vital focus area, with initiatives to enhance value chains and productivity. For instance, in Fergana district’s 15 mahallas, raspberry production currently totals 6,000 tons annually. An entrepreneur proposed increasing its value by 2.5 times through storage, processing, and packaging, contingent on access to nearby land.

Another entrepreneur aims to lease forest land in the Sokh district to cultivate 800 hectares of ferula and 50 hectares of saffron. Meanwhile, extending pipelines and enhancing pumping stations in Altyaryk district could support the creation of a 1,400-hectare intensive orchard, producing an additional 55,000 tons of export-oriented fruits.

The governor of Fergana presented ambitious plans, including attracting $3.7 billion in investments and increasing exports to $1.5 billion by 2025. The proposals aim to provide jobs for 500,000 citizens and lift 22,000 families out of poverty.

President Mirziyoyev emphasized the importance of supporting exporters, creating employment opportunities, and reducing unemployment. He instructed the government to refine the proposals and draft a resolution to accelerate the region’s economic development.