President Shavkat Mirziyoyev Outlines Comprehensive Development Plan for Surkhandarya Region
Tashkent, The Gulf Observer: On November 22, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev chaired a high-level meeting focusing on the socio-economic advancement of the Surkhandarya region, emphasizing the importance of improving the investment climate and fostering a conducive business environment.
The President highlighted the significant opportunities emerging from systemic regional development initiatives. For 2025, Surkhandarya has set ambitious goals, including attracting $2 billion in investments, creating 425,000 jobs, and boosting exports to $320 million.
Key Investment Projects and Opportunities
- Ayritom International Trade Zone: Currently generating $5 million in monthly product sales, the zone will expand to 150 hectares, enabling $250 million worth of projects.
- Mining Sector: Chinese investors have proposed a $2.7 billion investment in copper-silver mines in Babatag, which would create 2,000 jobs and generate $600 million annually through exports of finished products.
- Additional mineral-rich territories in Vandob and Chorbog (Sherabad district) are set to attract $320 million in investments for tungsten, coal, table salt, and quartz sand extraction, leading to 1,500 new jobs.
- Termez Free Economic Zone Expansion: A new 50-hectare branch will be established in Bandikhan district to support regional economic activity.
Advancing Agriculture and Tourism
The President underscored untapped opportunities in agriculture:
- Ferula Cultivation: Utilizing 18,000 hectares of pasture and forest lands in Baysun and Uzun districts, this initiative will create 4,000 jobs.
- Livestock Farming: Pastures in Uzun, Shurchi, and Kumkurgan districts can support sheep and cattle breeding complexes.
- Rice Production: Water from Muzrabad’s 17 collectors will irrigate 4,000 hectares, enabling annual production of 8,500 tons of rice and providing both permanent (400) and seasonal (4,500) employment.
- Greenhouse and Vineyard Development: Plans include 300 hectares of greenhouses in Kyziriq district and 1,000 hectares of vineyards in Oltinsoy district.
In tourism, programs will be launched to enhance infrastructure in Sangardak, Omonkhona, and Baysun, aiming to attract over 1 million tourists.
Strategic Directives
The Hokim of Surkhandarya presented regional development plans, emphasizing efficient use of land for agriculture and food security. President Mirziyoyev instructed officials to prioritize entrepreneurial initiatives, maximize the economic potential of mineral deposits, and enhance trade and service sectors.
The President concluded by stressing that every inch of allocated agricultural land must contribute to employment creation and food security, underlining the government’s commitment to a prosperous and self-reliant Surkhandarya.
