Photo: kun.uz
Uzbekistan’s Syrdarya region is set to establish industrial zones covering approximately 900 hectares, aiming to attract $5 billion in investments and create around 20,000 jobs. This initiative was discussed during a meeting on regional economic development with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, according to the presidential press service.
The creation of industrial zones is just one aspect of Syrdarya’s economic growth strategy. The region, located in the heart of Uzbekistan, is a key transportation hub where several international highways intersect, carrying over 300,000 vehicles daily. Authorities plan to allocate 500,000 square meters along these routes for retail and service businesses, with an expected 50,000 new jobs in trade and roadside services.
Agriculture is another key focus, leveraging the region’s favorable soil and climate conditions. The government plans to expand cultivation of potatoes, onions, raspberries, black currants, and cherries. Land adjacent to water sources will be designated for processing enterprises and export-oriented companies. Additionally, 25,000 hectares of low-yield land in eight districts will be repurposed for rice farming, with local producers permitted to export up to 50% of their harvest.
President Mirziyoyev also addressed the need for urban renewal. More than 1,000 residential buildings in the region are over 50 years old. Under a renovation program, new housing complexes with 15,000 apartments will replace outdated structures, with tax and customs incentives provided to developers to ensure affordability. Furthermore, $100 million will be allocated for upgrading roads, electricity grids, irrigation systems, and social infrastructure. The president instructed officials to complete efforts to ensure uninterrupted drinking water supply for Gulistan residents by July 1.
Despite progress in energy, construction, and entrepreneurship—alongside a pilot program supporting small businesses in Saykhunabad district—Syrdarya still lags in service sector growth. The region has the lowest share of services nationwide, a poverty rate exceeding 11%, and 22,000 unemployed residents.
To address these challenges, regional authorities have been given economic targets for 2025:
👉 Attract $2 billion in investments;
👉 Increase exports to $500 million;
👉 Create over 16,000 jobs;
👉 Reduce poverty to 7.4%.
