Executive summary

Since its independence in 1991, Uzbekistan has made careful progress in the transition from a centrally-planned to a market economy. Recognizing that foreign direct investment (FDI) can contribute to Uzbekistan's growth and development, and also ease the country's transition to a market-based economy and integration in the world economy, the country has welcomed foreign investors. Foreign direct investment increases the levels of fixed capital formation and also, by constituting an inflow of foreign capital, has a beneficial effect on the balance of payments. Investors have shown particular interest in Uzbekistan's manufacturing sector, which it is hoped will increase the standard of these facilities. Most importantly, an FDI package brings scientific, technical and managerial skills into the country, vital in the transformation of Uzbekistan's industrial sectors. The combined benefits of FDI would allow the country's industrial sector to gain international competitiveness, increase employment opportunities of higher remuneration and, through forward and backward linkages, develop Uzbekistan's small and medium enterprise (SME) sector.

Sustainable Development Goals:

Decent Work and Economic Growth

Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure