Photo: spot.uz.
Uzbekistan plans to increase its production of mineral fertilizers by 1.5 times by 2030 and raise exports in the sector to $1 billion. These goals are part of a new national strategy for accelerated development and digitalization of the chemical industry, discussed at a sectoral meeting chaired by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, according to his press service.
Officials noted that 21 projects worth $1 billion are currently under way, with additional initiatives prepared for the next three years totaling $4.5 billion.
However, the chemical industry faces significant challenges, particularly the aging of production facilities at major enterprises. As a result, energy costs have risen sharply, undermining competitiveness. In the production of nitrogen fertilizers, energy-related expenses account for up to 55 percent of total cost.
Officials proposed addressing these issues through energy-saving technologies and digitalization of production processes.
The meeting stressed that global demand for chemical products is rising rapidly. Despite high demand in neighboring countries—estimated at around $1 billion—and favorable logistics, Uzbekistan has not fully leveraged this potential. Deeper processing of domestic raw materials, officials said, could enable local plants to introduce new product types and double export volumes.
This year alone, new projects have been launched in Tashkent, Navoi, and Jizzakh regions to produce “green” mineral fertilizers, cyanide salts, potassium xanthate, potassium sulfate, and other high–value-added chemicals. Officials were instructed to draw up a strategy for expanding exports of these products.
The discussion also covered domestic needs. Experts say Uzbekistan plans to harvest 4.5 million tons of cotton next year. This will require building up reserves of phosphorus fertilizers and supplying enough sulfuric acid to manufacturers. The government also raised the need to quickly introduce a program of concessional loans for farmers to purchase fertilizers.
The president emphasized that the chemical industry is a strategic sector of Uzbekistan’s economy. After reviewing reports from relevant ministries and agencies, he issued instructions to ensure a stable domestic supply, bolster export potential, and create new jobs.
