European Union Supports Uzbekistan’s WTO Bid as Talks Progress
Uzbekistan Edges Closer to WTO Membership with Agreements on Services
Negotiations between Uzbekistan and the European Union aimed at the country’s accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO) have made significant progress, with agreements finalized on services and plans to conclude discussions on goods in the coming months.
Azizbek Urunov, the President’s Special Representative on WTO Affairs, shared the update through his LinkedIn account following bilateral talks held in Brussels with a delegation from Uzbekistan, including Deputy Minister of Economy and Finance Ahadbek Khaydarov. Urunov described the discussions as fruitful, announcing the completion of negotiations on the services sector and expressing optimism regarding the finalization of talks on the goods sector in the near future.
The European Union’s Directorate-General for Trade (DG Trade) has expressed full support for Uzbekistan’s goal of joining the WTO by the 14th Ministerial Conference scheduled for next year. Urunov highlighted the need for concluding talks with a few remaining countries, including Russia, the EU, the United Kingdom, and Switzerland.
Uzbekistan’s journey towards WTO membership began in April 2023 when President Shavkat Mirziyoyev directed the government to expedite efforts in securing membership to boost exports, especially of finished goods. Several measures were taken, including the appointment of a Special Representative for WTO Affairs and the establishment of dedicated units in government agencies to work with the organization.
President Mirziyoyev reaffirmed the importance of rapid WTO accession during his address at the 78th UN General Assembly session in September 2023, prompting WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala to expedite the working group meeting on Uzbekistan’s application.
With the aim to join the WTO before the 14th Ministerial Conference in 2026, Uzbekistan is making progress in bilateral negotiations with key nations, including the United States, China, and Japan. Economy and Finance Minister Jamshid Kuchkarov emphasized the necessity for local entrepreneurs to adapt to operating in an openly competitive environment in preparation for WTO membership.
The country is set to receive a 2- to 3-year transition period upon joining, with customs duties to be determined based on agreements with other WTO members. Uzbekistan’s efforts towards WTO accession reflect a commitment to implementing reforms and fostering fair trade practices in line with international standards.
