Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan to Open Shavat–Dashoguz Trade Zone by End of 2025

Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan have announced plans to launch a new border trade zone, Shavat-Dashoguz, by the end of 2025, aimed at boosting regional commerce and connectivity.

The announcement was made following high-level talks between Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, National Leader of the Turkmen people and Chairman of the Halk Maslahaty (People’s Council), and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, held at the Congress Center in the Avaza National Tourist Zone, The Caspian Post informs via Uzbek media.

The initiative reflects both countries’ shared commitment to enhancing bilateral trade and economic integration. Trade between the two nations has already shown strong momentum in 2025, with turnover reaching nearly $700 million in the first seven months alone.

The border zone agreement builds on existing cooperation under a free trade regime established in February 2025, which also saw the opening of national trade houses in Ashgabat and Tashkent. Both sides are actively expanding joint ventures and partnerships in industry, energy, transport, agriculture, and water resource management.

During the talks, particular focus was placed on strengthening the work of intergovernmental commissions and the Turkmen-Uzbek Business Council, seen as key platforms for deepening economic ties. The leaders also discussed preparations for the upcoming 7th Consultative Meeting of Central Asian Heads of State, further underlining the importance of regional cooperation.

The creation of the Shavat-Dashoguz trade zone is expected to serve as a strategic gateway for commerce, contributing to sustainable development and economic growth in both countries.