Paris Hosts Uzbekistan-France Business Forum

Ahead of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev's state visit to France, the Uzbekistan - France Business Forum was held in Paris today.

The event brought together officials from key ministries and agencies of both countries, as well as nearly 100 executives from top companies, financial institutions, and business organizations, The Caspian Post reports citing Uzbek media.

The Minister of Investment, Industry, and Trade Laziz Kudratov highlighted the forum as a unique platform for dialogue to strengthen bilateral relations and explore new opportunities for expanding economic cooperation.

The steady growth of trade and investment ties between Uzbekistan and France was emphasized. In 2024, trade turnover between the two countries reached $1.1 billion, marking a 14% increase compared to the previous year. Notably, Uzbekistan’s exports to France nearly doubled, reaching $800 million, while imports amounted to $330 million.

More than 50 French companies operate successfully in Uzbekistan, contributing to the country’s business environment. Among them are globally recognized firms such as Orano, SUEZ, Veolia, Total Energies, Voltalia, EDF, Lactalis, Airbus, MND, and others, actively developing projects in energy, infrastructure, environmental protection, aviation, food production, and tourism.

Highlighting the significant untapped potential for deepening relations, Mr. Kudratov outlined several promising areas for further cooperation. These include enhancing connectivity in transport and logistics, diversifying trade corridors, conducting geological exploration, and fostering innovation by integrating French technologies tailored to Uzbekistan’s needs.

The forum also reaffirmed the commitment to supporting new joint initiatives that align with investor interests and contribute to the qualitative transformation and long-term resilience of Uzbekistan’s economy.

Chairman of MEDEF International and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Orano, Claude Imauven, highly praised Uzbekistan’s large-scale reforms and urged French businesses to actively engage in the Uzbekistan market.

As part of the forum, B2B and G2B meetings were organized, enabling business representatives from both countries to establish dialogue and explore new avenues for cooperation.

Following the forum, more than 20 agreements and contracts were signed, outlining the future development of collaboration and the implementation of projects in key sectors such as agriculture, energy, green economy, urban development, water supply and transport, mining, healthcare, education, and more.