President Shavkat Mirziyoyev signed a decree on December 27, to harmonize Uzbekistan’s export support measures with World Trade Organization (WTO) agreements, according to the Ministry of Justice. The decree introduces amendments to regulatory legal acts governing export financing mechanisms, aligning them with international trade rules and WTO standards.
One key change is the cancellation of compensation for expenses related to the delivery of goods abroad by air and rail transport starting in 2025. However, subsidies and compensation for exports completed before December 31, 2024, will be disbursed by February 1, 2025. The decree aims to enhance the effectiveness of support provided to exporters, as noted by the publication Narodnoye Slovo.
Progress Toward WTO Membership
The move aligns with Uzbekistan's ongoing efforts to join the WTO. In early November, Azizbek Urunov, the presidential special representative for WTO issues, announced the conclusion of 14-month negotiations between Uzbekistan and the United States. Similar agreements have been finalized with countries including China, the Philippines, El Salvador, Thailand, and Pakistan.
At a December 20 meeting with entrepreneurs, President Mirziyoyev stated that Uzbekistan’s WTO accession process was entering its final stage. He emphasized that the government would continue supporting businesses while facilitating conditions for their growth and competitiveness.
Accelerating WTO Accession
In April 2023, President Mirziyoyev directed the government to accelerate preparations for WTO membership, emphasizing its importance for boosting exports, particularly of finished goods. A special representative for WTO issues was appointed, and interaction units were established in 20 government departments to support the accession process. A ban on creating regulatory acts that conflict with WTO standards was also introduced.
At the 78th session of the UN General Assembly in September 2023, the president identified early WTO accession as a priority. Following discussions, WTO Director General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala agreed to expedite the next working group meeting on Uzbekistan's membership. The country aims to join the WTO before the 14th Ministerial Meeting in 2026, set to take place in Cameroon.
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