Shavkat Mirziyoyev. Photo: Press Service of the President of Uzbekistan
Authorities in Uzbekistan’s Bukhara region have put together a package of 21 investment projects worth a total of $1.7 billion. Implementation of these initiatives is expected to create 32,000 jobs and boost exports by $180 million, according to figures presented at a meeting chaired by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and dedicated to the region’s economic development, the presidential press service reported.
Officials highlighted several projects involving foreign partners. Entrepreneurs from Turkey have expressed interest in graphite mining and processing in Peshkun district. A Vietnamese company plans to build a modern residential complex in the region, while an Indian investor intends to establish a surgical center. In addition, 260 projects covering a 217-hectare site are planned, providing jobs for more than 10,000 people.
Over the past eight years, the region has attracted more than $8 billion in investment, which has significantly diversified its economic structure. In industry alone, 6,000 new enterprises have been established, and production volumes have grown more than sixfold.
Tourism has also been developing. Infrastructure has improved, new facilities have been built, and well-known hotel brands have started operations in the area. As a result, tourist numbers have risen to 1.7 million annually.
According to the Bukhara regional administration, in the first half of this year alone, industrial output grew by 7.3 percent, about 200 enterprises were opened, and gross regional product increased by 6.4 percent.
Mirziyoyev noted that the region still has untapped potential for economic growth and job creation. In Peshkun district, for example, low-cost greenhouses have been set up to grow crops in demand abroad. The president instructed that this model be expanded to 5,000 households across the region.
In addition, vineyards will be planted on 10,000 hectares in Shafirkan, Gijduvan, Peshkun, and Bukhara districts, while apricot, cherry, fig, and other fruit orchards intended for export will be established on 5,000 hectares in Vabkent, Gijduvan, Jandar, Romitan, and Kagan districts.
The president stressed that while Bukhara is renowned for its ancient holy sites, it lacks facilities that would encourage tourists to stay longer. He proposed attracting foreign investors to build a shopping and entertainment park.
Industry remains a priority. The region hosts two major oil and gas enterprises, with another complex under construction, as well as solar and wind power plants. Mirziyoyev emphasized that small businesses could be developed around these facilities, increasing investment, production, and exports.
