Uzbekistan

U.S. assistance goals are to improve livelihoods of citizens through support to enhance overall economic conditions and boost investment in key sectors, add value to horticulture products, diversify economic markets, and address the threats of infectious disease and transnational crime. Assistance is also targeted at increasing citizen access to justice and input into government decision-making, promoting the rule of law, public education reform, defense cooperation, and encouraging government efforts that ensure respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.

Uzbekistan’s economy was historically based primarily on agriculture and natural resource extraction. While the country remains a major producer of energy and minerals, the manufacturing sector has grown in recent years and now accounts for approximately one quarter of GDP, surpassing agriculture. Uzbekistan has signed a trade and investment framework agreement with the United States and other Central Asian countries, establishing a regional forum to discuss ways to improve investment climates and expand trade within Central Asia. For the first time ever, in June 2019 the Department of Commerce led a certified trade mission to Uzbekistan, to increase trade between the two countries and open up new markets for American businesses.