Economic growth and foreign markets – Why Uzbekistan is accelerating WTO accession

Uzbekistan is intensifying its efforts to join the World Trade Organization (WTO) by December 2026, a move described by officials as a vital step for the nation’s economic future. However, the path to accession is not without its geopolitical and internal hurdles.

Azizbek Urunov, the Special Representative of the President of Uzbekistan on WTO Affairs, recently shared insights into the process during an episode of the “Fikr Yetakchilari” (Thought Leaders) podcast. He noted that while entering foreign markets is more critical than ever for the country’s development, certain international partners are less than enthusiastic about Uzbekistan’s integration into the global trade body.

“There are countries that do not want us to become a member of the WTO,” Urunov stated, choosing not to name specific nations but referring to them as “dear partners” who occasionally present “surprises.” He suggested that some of these partners have actively encouraged Uzbekistan to prioritize other regional organizations instead.

Legislative alignment and the 2026 roadmap

The drive for membership has gained significant momentum since 2023 under the direct supervision of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. According to a presidential decree, 2026 is set as the target year for full accession. The timeline for the coming months is rigorous:

September 2025: Conclusion of bilateral and multilateral negotiations on market access for goods and services.
December 2025: Preparation of the final membership protocol during the Working Party meeting.
Throughout 2026: Full harmonization of national legislation with WTO standards.

The government plans to adopt new laws covering food safety, anti-dumping measures, and compensation. Additionally, existing regulations regarding technical barriers to trade, veterinary standards, and phytosanitary measures will be overhauled. By the end of 2026, a revised law on foreign economic activity will be introduced to cement the core WTO principles of Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) status and national treatment.

A 32-year journey nearing its end

Uzbekistan’s quest to join the WTO began in 1994, but the process remained stagnant for decades. Following a long hiatus that began in 2005, the application was revitalized in July 2020. In a significant breakthrough in December 2025, Urunov announced the conclusion of bilateral negotiations with Russia, moving the country into the multilateral phase of the process.

To date, Uzbekistan has engaged in bilateral talks with 33 member states to resolve specific trade concerns. The transition to multilateral talks will focus on general systemic issues and the finalization of the legal framework.

The benefits of membership

The Uzbek government maintains that WTO membership will serve as a powerful catalyst for economic growth. By joining the 166 members who currently facilitate 97% of global trade, Uzbekistan expects to:

Establish a level playing field for domestic and foreign enterprises.
Improve the competitive environment within the local market.
Attract higher-quality foreign direct investment.
Integrate more deeply into global production chains.

President Mirziyoyev has characterized the move as a “deeply thought-out and far-sighted choice,” essential for ensuring that Uzbekistan speaks the same “economic language” as the rest of the international trading community.