Why is this important
Light industry is one of the main export drivers of Uzbekistan (textiles, leather and footwear products, silk, carpets). The new agency mechanism can accelerate modernization, close supply chain bottlenecks, and bring manufacturers to global markets.
What will the agency do
- Formulate and implement state policy in the textile, silk, leather and footwear, and carpet weaving sectors;
- Manage a $200 million fund (gradually allocated from the Reconstruction and Development Fund) to provide working capital to enterprises;
- Provide grants for training personnel and compensation for expenses for insurance of export contracts;
- Compensate for part of the costs of opening trading houses abroad, renting offices and warehouses, advertising;
- Facilitate the implementation of standards, certification, and transition to IFRS;
- By July 1, 2026, a laboratory capable of performing 24 types of tests shall be established in the textile technopark;
- Allocate 5 billion soums for Fashion Business Incubator — a fashion industry incubator;
- To assist in marketing research and manufacturers’ entry into foreign markets, including supporting the establishment of stores and trading houses abroad;
- Attract foreign brands and sourcing companies under the Made in Uzbekistan initiative;
- Stimulate the localization of missing production units (fabric dyeing, leather processing, silk products) and the relocation of enterprises from Turkey, China, and the EU.
Context
The new body is headed by Nozimjon Kholmurodov, former First Deputy Minister of Investments, Industry and Trade. The creation of the agency was announced by the president back in August 2025.
Light industry has long been a priority for Uzbekistan in increasing export revenue, creating jobs, and strengthening the Made in Uzbekistan brand. Industry problems include the lack of integrated chains, weak logistics, standardization, and access to international markets. The Agency will become a tool for concentrating resources, expert support, and financing for the “pumping” of industry producers.
