Uzbekistan on Track for WTO Membership by March 2026

Uzbekistan is approaching the final phase of its negotiations to join the World Trade Organization (WTO) and could officially become a member as early as March 2026, according to the head of the organization.

Speaking to the media in New York, WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala said Uzbekistan’s accession process had advanced significantly in recent months, The Caspian Post reports, citing Uzbek media.

While some negotiations remain unfinished, she expressed optimism that the country could soon become a full member if current progress continues.

“Things are moving very fast. If we stay on this course, by March 2026 we should be able to celebrate Uzbekistan’s membership,” Okonjo-Iweala said.

Her remarks came after a meeting with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in the United States, where discussions focused on the country’s path toward WTO accession. She praised Uzbekistan’s negotiating team and emphasized the strong political backing from the president and his administration.

“We talked about the achievements of the negotiating group and the support provided by the president. The process is almost finalized. We plan to hold a working group meeting in November, and I hope that as we approach the March deadline, everything will be concluded,” the WTO chief noted.

Okonjo-Iweala also pointed to Uzbekistan’s robust economic performance, highlighting its nearly 6 percent annual growth rate - twice the pace of global economic growth. “This progress is visible in the economy, and it is very impressive,” she said.

At the same time, she acknowledged that the negotiations have not been without challenges. While most bilateral talks are completed, discussions with the United States remain open. “This is one of the most serious issues left, but we will keep working on it. Let’s remain optimistic,” she added.

The WTO chief also expressed appreciation for the broader support surrounding Uzbekistan’s accession efforts, including the role of Saida Mirziyoyeva, the president’s daughter and a senior official involved in public and cultural affairs. “The team is doing excellent work, and the leadership is making a big difference,” she said.

If the accession process concludes on schedule, Uzbekistan will join the WTO in March 2026, marking a major milestone in its integration into the global trading system.