Transforming Industrial Zones in Uzbekistan: A Step Towards Sustainability

Organized by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in collaboration with the Institute of Legislation and Legal Policy (ILLP), the hybrid-format event gathered over 31 participants, including government officials, industry representatives, and international experts to advance the transformation of Uzbekistan’s industrial zones into eco-friendly and sustainable hubs. 

The seminar featured prominent speakers, including representatives from the Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade, GIZ and UNIDO, as well as other international and national experts. Key discussion addressed EIP concept and its key components, policy gap analysis and strategies for developing EIP enabling regulations, with insights from both international and national experience. 

The seminar began with opening remarks from key guests, including Mr. Uchqun Hudoyqulov, a representative of the Ministry of Investment, Industry, and Trade, who emphasized the government’s commitment to advancing sustainable industrial practices in Uzbekistan. In his speech, he noted:

"Uzbekistan is at a crucial point in its industrial development, and the integration of eco-industrial principles is essential for ensuring long-term sustainability. The transformation of industrial zones into eco-industrial parks will not only enhance resource efficiency but also strengthen our global competitiveness and foster a greener economy for future generations."
 

This was followed by remarks from Mr. Igor Eromenko, the GIZ component manager, who highlighted the importance of collaboration and innovation in achieving sustainable industrial transformation. He stated:

"Eco-industrial parks represent a unique opportunity to balance economic growth with environmental protection. By working together—governments, businesses, and international organizations—we can build industrial zones that not only drive economic development but also contribute to a sustainable and inclusive future for Uzbekistan."

Ms. Tatiana Chernyavskaya, UNIDO Project Manager, confirmed UNIDO’s commitment to supporting Uzbekistan’s journey toward sustainable industrial development. She said:
"The EIP approach is more than just a strategy for industrial growth—it is a framework for creating resilient and resource-efficient systems that benefit not only businesses but also the environment and communities. UNIDO will continue to provide technical assistance and build capacity to ensure the successful transformation of Uzbekistan’s industrial zones into eco-industrial parks."

The seminar included a presentation by Dick van Beers, UNIDO international EIP Expert, on the advantages of EIP, highlighting international success stories and good practices from other countries, offering practical examples of EIP implementation that Uzbekistan could adapt. 
 

The event also explored how industrial symbiosis can enhance resource efficiency by encouraging companies to share materials, energy, and water, reducing costs and environmental impact. A session led by Mr. Jean-Paul Gauthier, Senior Policy Expert at UNIDO, emphasized why ordinary laws governing special economic zones, labour, and the environment may not suffice, underscoring the need for EIP-specific regulations.

Additionally, Mr Kovshov, Legal Policy Expert at ILLP, presented an analysis of Uzbekistan’s regulatory framework, examining its current status and the prospects for adoption of EIP standards. A subsequent discussion led by ILLP offered a platform for participants to exchange ideas on ways to refine national strategies by identifying key financial, regulatory, and technical barriers, as well as opportunities to enhance public-private collaboration in overcoming these challenges.

Mr. Xojiislom Muxtarov, Senior Specialist of the Agency of Strategic Reforms under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, shared his perspective on the significance of EIPs for sustainable industrial development. He remarked:

"The Eco-Industrial Park initiative is not only an essential step for achieving sustainable industrial growth but also a powerful driver for regional economic and social development. I am particularly interested in the project’s implementation in Samarkand, as it is not just a strategic location but also holds personal significance for me as the hometown of my parents. This initiative will showcase how regional industrial zones can become models of sustainability and innovation."

The seminar fostered active engagement through Q&A sessions, enabling both in-person and online participants to exchange ideas, raise questions, and explore practical measures to advance EIP development in Uzbekistan. Participants also completed pre- and post-seminar questionnaires, offering insights into their evolving understanding of EIPs.     
At the conclusion of the seminar, participants demonstrated an improved understanding of the EIP concept and a stronger appreciation of its potential benefits. The feedback collected will inform ongoing efforts to refine Uzbekistan's legal and policy frameworks and create a roadmap for transforming Uzbekistan’s industrial zones into sustainable and resource-efficient parks.

The seminar’s success marks a step forward in Uzbekistan’s journey toward sustainable industrial growth. UNIDO and its partners will continue working to build national capacity, improve regulations, and attract investments to support the development of eco-industrial parks.