Uzbekistan intends to become full-fledged WTO member soon - Uzbek presidential aide

TASHKENT. Jan 27 (Interfax) - The inclusion of Uzbekistan in the World Trade Organization (WTO) should increase the country's investment appeal, Tashkent is actively working to join the WTO, Uzbek presidential aide Saida Mirziyoyeva said.

"Our country made a big step in this direction in 2024. It became possible due to resolute reforms conducted by the president. This year, we will continue at the same pace to become a full-fledged member of the organization soon. It should increase the country's investment appeal and promote the inclusion of Uzbek business in regional and global added value chains," Mirziyoyeva said on her Telegram channel on Monday.

The end goals of WTO membership and the efforts of the presidential reforms include people's wellbeing, the creation of good jobs for them and a transition to more effective management of the economy, she said.

Two key sessions of the WTO group took place last year, Mirziyoyeva said. It made it possible to begin the formation of the main membership document, a draft report of the working group. Bilateral talks with 15 countries, including the United States, China and Japan, were also completed. As a result, Uzbekistan has already signed 23 agreements.

Speaking about adaptation of the country's legislation to the WTO requirements, Mirziyoyeva said 20 important laws have been adopted over a short period to make business and competition more transparent.

Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev earlier said the country's authorities were making serious steps to join the WTO in 2026.