BUSINESS | ORIENT. Cross-border trade between Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan is reaching a new level. According to the Ministry of Investment, Industry, and Trade of Uzbekistan, the process of leasing retail space has begun in the free trade zone on the border between the two countries. Entrepreneurs can now officially reserve space for their businesses in this unique hub.

The free trade zone is not just a market, but a fully-fledged service center covering 3.1 hectares. The infrastructure is ready to accommodate thousands of shoppers. The shopping arcades include 112 open galleries and 28 indoor pavilions, as well as 16 specialty stores. The area also includes pharmacies, medical centers, a hotel for entrepreneurs, a cafe, and even a hair salon. A huge parking lot for 300 cars is available for those making large purchases.

The key advantage of the zone is its simplified visa-free regime. This allows traders and buyers from both countries to move within the zone without unnecessary bureaucratic procedures. It is essentially a "common living room" for businesses from both countries.

The Shavat-Dashoguz zone is a touchstone. A successful launch of the lease will prove that cross-border trade can be civilized, modern, and highly profitable. For Turkmen producers, this is the shortest route to the Uzbek market without complex export schemes.

The opening of the lease comes amid growing mutual trade and cargo transportation between the countries, which has increased by 30%, including the volume of cargo shipped through the port of Turkmenbashi.