Why is this important
The development of the chemical industry directly affects the export, food security, and cost of agricultural products, especially cotton — one of the key sectors of Uzbekistan’s economy. The planned measures should increase the competitiveness of Uzbek chemical products, expand export markets, and reduce agriculture’s dependence on fertilizer supply disruptions.
What happened
- Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed proposals for the development of the chemical industry, increasing production and exports.
- The task was set to drastically reduce costs through energy-saving technologies and digitalization.
- The issue of providing cotton growing with fertilizers was considered separately. The goal is to harvest 4.5 million tons of cotton by 2026.
- Instructions were given to form a reserve of phosphates, ensure the timely supply of sulfuric acid to producers, and to begin issuing concessional loans to farmers for the purchase of fertilizers as soon as possible.
Numbers and facts
- By 2030, it is planned to increase the production of chemical products by 2 times, mineral fertilizers — by 1.5 times, and bring exports to $1 billion.
- The implementation of 21 large projects with a total value of $1 billion is underway.
- A portfolio of new initiatives worth $4.5 billion has been formed for the next three years.
- It was noted that outdated capacities at a number of enterprises reduce competitiveness due to high energy costs — in the production of nitrogen fertilizers, they reach 55% of the cost.
- It was noted that outdated capacities at a number of enterprises reduce competitiveness due to high energy costs — in the production of nitrogen fertilizers, they reach 55% of the cost.
- Since the beginning of the year, the production of “green” fertilizers, cyanide salts, potassium sulfate, and other high-value-added products has been launched in Tashkent, Navoi, and Jizzakh regions. It was instructed to develop a strategy to increase their exports.
Context
- The chemical industry remains one of the key sectors for Uzbekistan’s industrial growth, ensuring not only export revenue but also the sustainability of the agricultural sector.
- The rise in energy prices increases the burden on businesses, making the transition to energy-efficient technologies a strategic necessity.
