Uzbekistan will create its first export-focused Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in the Namangan region, following a presidential decree issued on March 4 to enhance the efficiency of SEZs and industrial zones. The Ministry of Justice’s legal information channel reported the development.
Under the new decree, Uzbekistan aims to boost SEZ production output to $4.3bn by 2025, while industrial zones are expected to reach $1.8bn. Export targets for SEZs and industrial zones are set at $1bn and $512mn.
To support these goals, the government plans to attract $3.1bn in investments, including $2.3bn for SEZs and $800mn for industrial zones. The initiative is also expected to create 29,000 new jobs. Additionally, all time limits on SEZ operations have been removed, allowing for long-term economic planning.
A key aspect of the reforms is the introduction of SEZs dedicated exclusively to export-oriented production. The first such zone, SEZ “Namangan,” was first announced by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in January.
The Ministry of Investments, Industry, and Trade will oversee SEZ management, including those transferred to private operators and industrial zones administered by local khokimiyats.
From June 1, SEZ participants will benefit from streamlined customs procedures, allowing imported raw materials, components, and materials to be processed under the “processing in customs territory” regime.
Furthermore, until January 1, 2028, SEZ and industrial zone directorates will receive a land tax benefit, with the tax rate set at 1% of the accrued amount for leased plots.
