President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has expressed his disappointment with the disorganized state of the leather industry across 14 regions of Uzbekistan.
Speaking at a video conference focused on enhancing local industrial networks to boost employment and profitability, Mirziyoyev highlighted the urgent need for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to complement large investment projects, generate employment, and produce exportable goods.
The president emphasized the importance of addressing challenges within three critical sectors: leather, carpet, and cocoon industries. He pointed out the failure of some ministers and governors to adequately engage with businessmen in these fields and capitalize on available opportunities.
Mirziyoyev underscored the disproportionate distribution of leather production, with half of the output concentrated in Andijan and Fergana alone. Meanwhile, regions like Karakalpakstan, Bukhara, Jizzakh, Surkhandarya, and Khorezm, contributing 40% of the national leather production, are notably absent from the industry's share.
The president lamented that despite allocating 155 hectares of land for 16 specialized leather industrial zones two years ago, proper organization remains lacking in various districts and cities. He specifically criticized the management of projects in several areas, citing issues with market access, working capital, and organizational inefficiencies.
A critical concern raised during the discussion was the inadequate supply of raw materials. While efforts have been made to establish animal husbandry clusters in 25 districts to supply cattle for leather processing, challenges persist due to unresolved issues concerning land allocation and credit accessibility. 19 clusters have yet to receive sufficient land allocation, hindering their operational effectiveness.
In light of these challenges, the president stressed the need for substantial reforms within the "Uzcharmsanoat" association, which oversees the country's textile and light industry sectors. He called for a fundamental shift in approach to address the systemic issues plaguing the leather industry and ensure its sustainable growth.
The meeting concluded with a consensus on the imperative of cohesive governmental and industrial efforts to revitalize the leather sector, foster SME development, and maximize the potential of Uzbekistan's domestic industries.
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