Industrial zones attract manufacturers and logistics investment
Industrial Zones Attract Manufacturers and Logistics Investment
Industrial zones attract manufacturers and logistics - Uzbekistan's strategic expansion of special economic zones has positioned them as a critical driver for foreign investment and industrial growth. These zones, which range from export-oriented manufacturing hubs to logistics platforms connecting Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, are playing a vital role in modernizing the country’s production capabilities. According to recent reports, the Special Economic Zones (SEZs) contributed nearly €3.12 billion to industrial output in the first nine months of 2025, marking a 42.7% year-on-year surge. This growth underscores the government’s efforts to enhance infrastructure and streamline operations to meet the demands of international businesses.
Navoi Free Economic Zone: A Manufacturing and Logistics Powerhouse
Among Uzbekistan’s most prominent industrial hubs, the Navoi Free Economic Zone has emerged as a focal point for both production and transportation. The zone currently hosts over 90 projects valued at approximately €2.2 billion, with 73 already operational and generating more than 8,000 employment opportunities. Officials note that additional development is underway, with 18 major projects planned between 2026 and 2029, set to create nearly 2,000 new jobs. These projects are expected to further solidify Navoi’s role as a key logistics center, with exports to CIS countries, Europe, and China reaching nearly €132 million in 2025. Projections indicate that 2026 will see this figure surpass €141 million.
“Seventy-three projects have already been launched, creating more than 8,000 jobs,” said Ma’murjon Murodullayev, deputy director of the zone’s administration. “Between 2026 and 2029, another 18 major projects are planned, which are expected to create nearly 2,000 additional jobs.”
The Navoi zone is also investing in multimodal transport infrastructure to strengthen its position as a central Eurasian transit hub. Alisher Klichov, director of Navoi International Airport, emphasized ongoing efforts to accommodate rising cargo volumes and transit traffic. “Our strategic goal is to create a central Eurasian transit hub in Navoi capable of competing with major hubs in the UAE, Kazakhstan, and the Caucasus,” Klichov stated. This includes the construction of a new cargo terminal, specialized facilities for express shipments, and an aircraft maintenance and painting center slated for completion by 2029.
Tashkent Region SEZ: A Magnet for Foreign Enterprises
While Navoi dominates in logistics and manufacturing, the Tashkent region’s Special Economic Zone has also attracted significant attention from international manufacturers. Eldor Ko’chimov, chief specialist at the zone’s administration, reported that 71 foreign companies operate within its boundaries, with Chinese investors leading the way. “Chinese companies account for the largest share, with 31 projects, while 14 projects involve investors from Russia,” Ko’chimov explained. Discussions are currently underway with Japanese and Korean partners to further diversify the zone’s investor base.
“Our planned investment is around €112 million, and it is expected to increase further,” said Showaib Mirzoi, whose company is developing a beverage production project in Angren. “We plan to add PET lines, glass lines, CO2 gas production, and plastic packaging facilities.”
Mirzoi highlighted that his firm already operates similar businesses in Afghanistan but chose Uzbekistan for its industrial development opportunities and expanding market. Since the Tashkent region SEZ was established in 2012, 119 enterprises have been launched, collectively worth €1.3 billion. Construction on an additional 112 projects, valued at roughly $1.2 billion, is ongoing, with over 11,000 jobs anticipated. Products manufactured in the zone are now exported to nearly 30 countries, reflecting its growing global reach.
Termez: A Gateway to Regional Trade
Further south, the Termez International Trade Center near the Afghan border is becoming a critical commercial link. Opened in August 2024, the center now accommodates more than 255 entrepreneurs, many of whom are leveraging Uzbekistan’s strategic location to facilitate trade between Central Asia and South Asia. This development is part of a broader initiative to enhance regional connectivity and economic integration, with the zone serving as a bridge for goods and services moving across borders.
Government officials have been proactive in promoting SEZs as a means to attract foreign capital and boost industrial output. Sahib Saifnazarov, head of the Department of Free Economic Zones at the Ministry of Investments, Industry and Trade, noted that foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows are rising steadily. “Annual foreign direct investment inflows are growing by around 20 to 25 percent,” he said. This increase is driven by improved infrastructure, expanded industrial capacity, and a focus on green energy initiatives.
“Today, more attention is being paid not only to infrastructure but also to green energy,” Saifnazarov added. “Another important direction is involving experienced foreign companies in the management of these zones.”
The government is actively encouraging the participation of international management firms to optimize operations within the SEZs. This approach aims to leverage global best practices and enhance efficiency in sectors such as manufacturing and logistics. In tandem, renewable energy projects are being prioritized to reduce reliance on traditional power sources and support sustainable development. These measures are expected to create a more attractive environment for long-term investment.
As Uzbekistan continues to refine its economic zones, the country’s industrial landscape is undergoing a transformation. The combination of infrastructure development, renewable energy adoption, and strategic partnerships with foreign entities is positioning Uzbekistan as a competitive player in the global manufacturing and logistics arena. With over 31 SEZs and hundreds of smaller industrial sites, the nation is capitalizing on its geographic advantages to drive economic growth. The success of these zones not only reflects improved investment climate but also highlights Uzbekistan’s commitment to becoming a regional trade and production hub.