Making the Most Out of Growing US-Uzbekistan Trade and Investment
Uzbekistan aims to attract greater U.S. investment, and is making its own investments in the United States. But it can’t forget the people.
Recent developments in U.S.-Uzbekistan economic ties highlight a growing partnership focused on trade, investment, and employment opportunities for the Uzbek people. U.S. President Donald Trump and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev are set to meet in December, further strengthening diplomatic relations. In June, U.S. Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer signed "an early harvest of trade commitments" with Uzbekistan, eliminating or reducing tariffs on U.S. industrial goods and agricultural products, while Washington committed to providing favorable consideration in tariff actions for Uzbekistan's goods.
The U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) launched the U.S.-Uzbekistan Joint Investment Platform in June to identify strategic investments in Uzbekistan's energy, infrastructure, critical minerals, transportation, and logistics sectors. This mirrors a previous $8.5 billion deal in 2025 for the purchase of Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft, which will enhance direct flights and tourism between the two countries.
Uzbekistan's AFKA company is constructing a manufacturing plant in Kentucky, USA, the first Uzbek company to do so, which will employ 331 people and bolster bilateral commercial ties. Meanwhile, Uzbekistan is investing in domestic infrastructure, such as modernizing regional airports, upgrading public transportation, and developing new cities like Khiva and Nukus. The Uzbek government aims for 54% of its power to be derived from renewable sources by 2030, encouraging U.S. companies to invest in the renewable energy sector.
Despite challenges like the Jackson-Vanik Amendment, which has minimal impact on trade and investment, Uzbekistan's large population and young workforce present an opportunity to create jobs and improve living standards. The nation's vast resources, especially in critical minerals, oil, and gas, attract foreign investment, though trade with China remains significantly higher.
Overall, stronger U.S.-Uzbek trade and investment ties foster economic growth and development in Uzbekistan, while also expanding opportunities for U.S. companies and American workers.
Written by urgent.news from The Diplomat's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
