Škoda may launch train assembly plant in Uzbekistan

Škoda Group presented its strategic plan for entering the Uzbek market during a business meeting in Brussels on 24 October, attended by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. The company’s CEO, Petr Novotný, took part in the talks, outlining a roadmap for long-term partnership.

According to the proposed plan, Škoda Group intends to enter the Uzbek market through a joint venture focused on three key areas:

– local assembly of railway transport;
– maintenance and repair services throughout the full lifecycle of transport vehicles;
– establishment of the Škoda Academy to support local education and professional development.

“Each of the three areas represents a concrete step towards fulfilling the new Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement and the European Global Gateway strategy,” said Petr Novotný. “We consider Uzbekistan to be a country that is opening up to new investments from European business partners. It has long been in our sights in terms of our strategic ambitions. We therefore very much welcome the opportunity to contribute to the development of sustainable transport, education and technological modernisation in the local market.”

During the meeting, Uzbekistan’s Minister of Transport, Ilhom Mahkamov, held bilateral talks with Škoda Group representatives to discuss practical steps for advancing cooperation in railway and urban transport.

President Mirziyoyev praised Škoda Group’s contribution to Uzbekistan’s transport development, particularly in introducing European technologies and expertise. He also expressed his support for the company’s long-term presence in the Uzbek market.