120 new enterprises and $1 billion investment to boost Karakalpakstan's economy in 2025

Next year, regional projects worth $1 billion will be launched in Karakalpakstan, along with the establishment of 120 new enterprises. This announcement was made on December 23 during a meeting chaired by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, focusing on priority tasks for 2025 aimed at expanding opportunities, increasing investment, and boosting employment in the Republic of Karakalpakstan.

At the meeting, the Chairman of the Jokargi Kenes of Karakalpakstan presented plans to develop these opportunities and foster investments and job creation.

The President highlighted the composition of the planned investments. Of the $3.1 billion in investments earmarked for next year, only $500 million will be allocated to regional projects. To address this, it was emphasized that the share of regional projects should be increased by utilizing the full potential of the districts. As part of this initiative, an additional $1 billion will be invested in regional projects, and 120 enterprises will be launched. The export volume is expected to reach $500 million.

Furthermore, 85 large enterprises will be brought to full capacity, and new enterprises, trade, and service areas will be created, generating employment for 150,000 people. This will lower the unemployment rate to 5.4 percent. Additionally, a source of income will be provided for 20,000 needy families, and poverty will be reduced by 7.6 percent.

Currently, a 1-gigawatt wind power plant is under construction in Karakalpakstan, with plans to develop a total of 9.3 gigawatts of wind power plants. This will generate 33 billion kilowatt hours of electricity annually. The region also offers significant advantages in terms of natural gas.

It was emphasized that large energy-intensive projects, particularly in sectors such as metallurgy, chemicals, and building materials, should be located in Karakalpakstan.

Agricultural efficiency must also be improved. Plans include establishing 3,000 hectares of industrialized gardens and vineyards on irrigated lands. Additionally, sesame will be cultivated on 31,000 hectares, and mung beans will be grown on 22,000 hectares for export. A three-year program will be developed to plant licorice on 30,000 hectares.

These opportunities are only a fraction of Karakalpakstan's potential, and their effective utilization will drive the region's rapid development.

To support these efforts, a project office will be established in Karakalpakstan to oversee three key areas: agriculture, industry, and tourism. This office will assess the growth potential of each district, identify ways to increase land income, and develop proposals for processing raw materials and agricultural products. It will also create suggestions for opening new tourism destinations and developing necessary infrastructure.

Authorities have been tasked with closely monitoring the progress of investment projects, employment initiatives, and export targets. They are also instructed to collaborate with reputable foreign experts to develop a district-specific development strategy.