The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has praised Uzbekistan’s ongoing efforts to join the World Trade Organization, describing the country’s progress as “very commendable” and in alignment with its broader economic development goals.
Speaking at the Central Asia and the Caucasus (CCA) Media Roundtable, Koba Gvenetadze, the IMF’s Resident Representative in Uzbekistan, noted that several bilateral agreements have already been signed as part of the accession process—an indicator of the government’s sustained commitment.
“A lot of work has been done over the last two years. The authorities are very hopeful they will be able to join the WTO in the near future,” Gvenetadze said.
Highlighting the strategic value of WTO membership, he emphasized that accession would grant Uzbekistan greater access to global markets, enhance the competitiveness of its economy, and expand export potential.
“It will make the Uzbek economy more competitive. Its potential for exports will increase, and overall, the country is going to benefit,” he explained.
Referring to a recent joint study conducted by IMF and WTO staff, Gvenetadze stressed that WTO membership has historically boosted growth and job creation in the medium term for countries that have joined the organization. He noted that these outcomes align well with Uzbekistan’s development objectives.
“This is exactly in line with the goals of development for Uzbekistan. We very much support Uzbekistan in this process and hope these strong efforts will culminate in full accession,” Gvenetadze concluded.
Uzbekistan’s WTO Accession
Uzbekistan’s journey to join the World Trade Organization (WTO) has gained renewed momentum in recent years, after initial efforts launched in 1998 stalled in 2005. The process officially resumed in 2020, with four Working Group meetings held since then—the most recent in November 2023.
In September 2023, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev held talks with WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala during the 78th session of the UN General Assembly. Okonjo-Iweala praised Uzbekistan’s dedication to joining the WTO and reaffirmed the Secretariat’s full backing, expressing optimism about the country’s accession in the near future.
Continuing its alignment with WTO standards, Uzbekistan took a significant step in February 2024 by updating five national laws to comply with WTO rules.
WTO membership is seen as critical for Uzbekistan’s economic modernization. Experts highlight four main benefits:
- Fair competition for domestic businesses,
- Improved market efficiency through increased openness,
- Higher-quality foreign investment, and
- Deeper integration into global trade networks.
Saida Mirziyoyeva has emphasized that WTO accession supports broader national reforms aimed at job creation, better governance, and improved living standards.
International recognition of Uzbekistan’s efforts continues to grow. At the upcoming 14th WTO Ministerial Conference in March 2026, Uzbekistan is expected to be a central focus, alongside Bosnia and Herzegovina and Ethiopia. At the last accession-related session, 26 member states participated, with 16 voicing strong support for Uzbek
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