Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) —  On 4 December 2024, President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev held a meeting focused on measures to ensure food security, boost investments, and reduce poverty in the Kashkadarya region.

Kashkadarya has significant potential in industries such as manufacturing, energy, agriculture, and tourism. Since the beginning of the year, the region has attracted US$2 billion in investments, secured employment for 565,000 people, and lifted 90,000 individuals out of poverty. By the end of the year, the region’s gross regional product is projected to grow by more than 6%, with exports expected to reach US$555 million.

Ensuring food security remains a critical priority. Starting in 2025, Kashkadarya will achieve self-sufficiency in the production of potatoes, fruits, poultry meat, and eggs. Sixteen large-scale projects are being implemented with the participation of foreign investors, including the establishment of modern orchards and the expansion of organic vegetable and fruit farming.

Livestock development is also a priority. The region will import 62,000 sheep and 10,000 head of cattle. Additionally, a livestock cluster and a poultry farm will be created.

In the textile sector, five new enterprises worth US$233 million are set to launch, which will increase fabric production by 51%. Tourism will also see significant development, with plans to invest in facilities in the Miraki and Maidanak areas, establish 200 guesthouses, and open 1,000 retail outlets.

Furthermore, under the "From Poverty to Prosperity" program, which began on November 1, 2024, six major enterprises in the region have committed to initiatives aimed at lifting more than 10,000 people out of poverty by 2025. Plans include the launch of 86 major driver projects and 33,000 microprojects to create additional jobs and further reduce poverty levels.

The regional governor presented plans for 2025, which include attracting US$3.5 billion in investments, increasing exports to US$1 billion, and creating 300,000 new jobs.