Highlighting the growing trade relationship between Uzbekistan and Pakistan, the Uzbek ambassador, Alisher Tukhtaev, announced a shared goal of increasing bilateral trade to $1 billion in the coming years. During a meeting at the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), the ambassador shared the remarkable progress, noting that trade had risen from $122 million in 2019 to $387 million by 2023.
One of the key steps in strengthening ties is the recent launch of direct flights between Tashkent and Lahore, with plans to introduce flights from Karachi to Uzbekistan. Ambassador Tukhtaev emphasized the deep cultural and historical bonds between the two nations, which continue to enhance cooperation in trade, tourism, and investment.
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The ambassador also pointed to Uzbekistan’s soft visa regime, implemented in September 2024, which makes it easier for Pakistani citizens to obtain business and tourist visas. This policy is designed to further foster economic and people-to-people connections between the two countries.
Ambassador Tukhtaev encouraged Pakistani businessmen to explore investment opportunities in Uzbekistan, particularly in sectors like textiles, pharmaceuticals, leather, food processing, and agro-businesses. He also welcomed the idea of organizing B2B meetings during business delegations’ visits to capitalize on trade and investment prospects.
The ambassador reiterated the potential for deeper cooperation in trade and strategic collaboration, emphasizing that the growing relationship is rooted in a shared vision of regional connectivity and economic prosperity.
