India and Uzbekistan have agreed to enhance trade relations, tackle non-tariff barriers, and strive to double bilateral trade in the next three years. The 14th Session of the India-Uzbekistan Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, and Technological Cooperation was co-chaired by Rajesh Agrawal, Department of Commerce Secretary, and Shokhrukh Gulamov, Deputy Minister of Investment, Industry, and Trade of Uzbekistan. Discussions included expanding Indian exports to Uzbekistan in various sectors such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture, engineering goods, and digital cooperation.
During the meeting held in Tashkent, both sides acknowledged India’s expertise in agriculture, processed foods, healthcare services, and digital technologies. They emphasized the need to address non-tariff barriers promptly to boost trade outcomes and explored cooperation in areas like ICT, energy, and transport connectivity. India highlighted its strengths in IT, fintech, cybersecurity, and digital logistics, proposing collaboration on customs data exchange and payment infrastructure interlinking.
The Commerce Secretary emphasized the importance of resolving non-tariff barriers related to standards, customs procedures, and market access for promoting trade. Both countries recognized the significance of robust transport and logistics connectivity for maximizing their economic partnership. The meeting concluded with an agreement to organize the 15th meeting of the India-Uzbekistan Intergovernmental Commission in India at a mutually convenient time.
