Uzbekistan nears WTO entry with accelerated negotiations

On May 14, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed Uzbekistan’s accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and measures to expedite the process, as reported by the presidential press service.

During the meeting, the President issued directives to accelerate membership negotiations while ensuring a structured and high-quality approach. Uzbekistan aims to finalize bilateral talks with nine remaining countries this year, hold two working group meetings, and complete the group's final report, thereby formalizing its commitments within the WTO framework.

Additionally, the President emphasized the need to align national legislation with WTO requirements by fast-tracking the adoption of around 15 regulatory legal documents. Key legislative priorities include accelerating the adoption of updated laws on food safety and protective trade measures, including antidumping and countervailing duties. Strengthening cooperation with the Legislative Chamber of the Oliy Majlis has been outlined as a crucial step to ensure effective implementation.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of reforms in technical regulation, sanitary and phytosanitary standards, and veterinary practices, along with enhancing professional training in these areas.

Uzbekistan has been actively working toward WTO membership under the President’s supervision since 2023. Earlier, a presidential decree revoked exclusive rights granted to state-owned enterprises, further facilitating the country’s WTO accession efforts.