30% Increase Registered In Uzbekistan–Pakistan Bilateral Trade: Kurdatov Laziz Shavkatovic

ISLAMABAD ( WNAM REPORT ): Uzbekistan’s Minister of Investment, Industry, and Trade, Kurdatov Laziz Shavkatovich, announced a significant 30% increase in bilateral trade between Pakistan and Uzbekistan, crediting enhanced connectivity and growing sectoral collaboration for the upward trend. Speaking at the 36th International Achievement Awards (IAAs) hosted by the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) in Tashkent, the Minister reaffirmed his government’s commitment to further strengthening economic ties.
“We remain committed to expanding our trade volume. Since June 14 this year, we have launched direct regular flights between Tashkent and Islamabad, which have now increased to four flights per week,” he said. “This enhanced connectivity is creating new opportunities for business, tourism, and cultural exchange between our nations.”
Highlighting the vast potential for collaboration, Minister Kurdatov noted key areas including agriculture, textiles, pharmaceuticals, tourism, and information technology.
Underscoring Uzbekistan’s rapidly growing digital economy, the Minister stated that over 2,000 IT companies are now operating across the country, with IT exports reaching USD 1 billion this year. By 2030, Uzbekistan aims to increase this figure to USD 5 billion. He warmly welcomed Pakistani companies to explore opportunities in IT outsourcing, digital payments, cybersecurity, and workforce development.
Commending RCCI’s longstanding efforts to foster regional connectivity, Minister Kurdatov said“We strongly encourage you to work closely with Uzbek partners, and I assure you our government will continue to provide full support to ensure your success and comfort in Uzbekistan,” he said.
RCCI President Usman Shaukat reiterated the Chamber’s dedication to strengthening international linkages, promoting trade diplomacy, and opening new avenues for Pakistani exports and investments.
During the ceremony, Sohail Altaf, Group Leader and Former RCCI President, received a memento in recognition of his dynamic leadership and consistent advocacy for Pakistan’s business community on budgetary and policy matters. The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Former RCCI President Syed Asad Mashadi .
Distinguished attendees included H.E. Ahmed Farooq, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Uzbekistan; Alisher Shaikhov, Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan; and Zaheer Abbas, Pakistan’s Trade Counselor in Tashkent.
Top performers were honored in categories such as Businessman of the Year, Company of the Year, Exporter of the Year, Innovation and Technology Award, and Lifetime Achievement Award.