Uzbekistan creates special export zones
15.03.2025 | 03:30 |President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed a decree "On additional measures to improve the efficiency of special economic and industrial zones." This was reported by Uzbek media with details about the regime and target indicators of their work, increasing export potential and the expected socio-economic effect.
It is reported, in particular, that according to the decree, special economic zones (SEZ) can now be created in the form of a fenced special export zone specializing exclusively in export-oriented projects. The concept of special export zones is introduced into the legislation. All their products will be supplied to foreign markets. In addition, the restriction on the duration of special economic zones has been canceled.
The decree of the head of state sets targets for SEZs and industrial zones. According to Kursiv Uzbekistan, in 2025, special economic zones should develop at least $2.3 billion in investments and increase total production to $4.3 billion. At least 12 thousand jobs will be created in these zones. By the end of 2025, the total export of Uzbekistan's special economic zones is planned to increase to $1 billion.
As for industrial zones, in 2025 they will have to develop investments in the amount of $800 million and increase total production to $1.8 billion. Industrial zone exports are planned to increase to $512 million. At least 17 thousand jobs will be created.
According to UzDaily.uz, the first special export zone will be "Namangan". Its participants will be able to place imported raw materials, materials and components in the customs regime of a free customs zone. In this case, goods placed on the territory of the zone will be considered to be outside the customs territory for the purposes of applying customs duties and economic policy measures.
In addition, raw stuff, materials, components, as well as services supplied to residents of the FEZ "Namangan" by domestic enterprises will be equated to exports. At the same time, goods sold by zone participants on the domestic market will be equated to imports and subject to appropriate customs and tax payments.