Friederike Seifert, an expert at the Agency for Strategic Reforms (ASR), has conducted a comprehensive study on the prospects for economic cooperation between Uzbekistan and African countries. The findings, as reported by the ASR press service, highlight the diverse development paths of African nations and their significant potential for trade with Uzbekistan.
African countries, with their varied economic landscapes, offer numerous opportunities for enhancing trade relations with Uzbekistan. Many African nations are members of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and participants in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which facilitates easier and more extensive trade agreements.
The economies of many African countries still heavily depend on agriculture. This presents a valuable opportunity for Uzbekistan to supply essential agricultural products such as fertilizers and agricultural machinery.
Apart from agriculture, several African countries are rich in natural resources, including oil, gas, metals, minerals, and diamonds. Countries such as Algeria, Gabon, Libya, Nigeria, Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa could benefit from Uzbek exports of mining equipment and machinery. These exports could support the extraction and processing of these resources, fostering economic growth and industrial development.
Egypt, as the most developed and diversified economy in North Africa, is a key trade partner for Uzbekistan, receiving 57% of Uzbekistan's exports to the African continent. The primary exports include yarn, sulfur, phosphinates, and trucks.
South Africa, recognized as the most technologically advanced and industrialized country in Africa, holds great promise for increased trade. Currently, only 6% of Uzbekistan's exports to Africa are directed to South Africa, mainly consisting of sulfates and yarn. Expanding this trade relationship could be mutually beneficial, given South Africa's industrial capabilities and demand for various products.
Morocco ranks second in Africa for imports from Uzbekistan, accounting for 17% of the total exports. The chemical industry presents a promising avenue for expanding trade with Morocco, leveraging Uzbekistan's expertise and production capacity in this sector.
Tunisia offers potential for growth, particularly in the area of electrical engineering. Strengthening trade ties in this sector could enhance both countries' technological and industrial capabilities.
Kenya stands out as a market with notable potential despite currently having a negligible volume of exports from Uzbekistan. Uzbekistan could supply sulfate fertilizers and agricultural machinery to Kenya, aiding in the development of its agricultural sector. However, obtaining a certificate from the Kenya Bureau of Standards is necessary to facilitate these exports.
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