Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Oybek Kambarov, Secretary of the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Pakistan, expressed interest in expanding bilateral trade during his visit to the Multan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), according to Lead Pakistan.

Kambarov was warmly welcomed by MCCI President Mian Bakhtawar Tanveer Sheikh and other chamber representatives. He highlighted the significant growth in trade between Pakistan and Uzbekistan, which increased from US$122 million in 2021 to US$404 million last year, with US$320 million already recorded this year. Kambarov emphasized that both countries aim to raise bilateral trade to US$2 billion in the coming years.

He also noted that Uzbekistan is establishing a special economic zone offering tax incentives for foreign investors, including Pakistani companies. Currently, there are 18 industrial zones operating in key sectors such as textiles, food processing, agro-industrial industries, and leather production.

On transport connectivity, Kambarov mentioned that three direct flights link Pakistan and Uzbekistan — one from Islamabad and two from Lahore — and added that visa processing for Pakistani businessmen has been simplified to three days.

He stressed the need to expand cooperation in business, tourism, technology transfer, and the production of high value-added goods to increase Pakistani exports in global markets.

MCCI Senior Vice President Khawaja Mohsin highlighted the chamber’s role in South Punjab and proposed the creation of warehouse facilities for Pakistani exporters in Uzbekistan. Both sides agreed to organize B2B meetings, trade fairs, and single-country exhibitions to further strengthen trade ties.

The event concluded with an exchange of commemorative gifts. Later, the Uzbek diplomat visited textile, poultry, mango processing, and leather industry enterprises, praising the quality and innovation demonstrated by Pakistani entrepreneurs.