Amman:Uzbekistan has been identified as a promising market for Jordanian exports, spurred by a growing demand for a variety of products that Jordan is capable of producing and exporting. This insight comes from a study prepared by Jordan Exports in collaboration with the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Supply.
According to Jordan News Agency, the study indicates that Uzbekistan imported approximately $35.3 billion in goods in 2024, with around $2.28 billion in product categories that Jordan produces and exports. Although Jordan's global exports in these categories amounted to $1.15 billion, a mere $741,000 reached Uzbekistan. This discrepancy suggests significant potential for expanding Jordan's export presence, particularly in pharmaceuticals, processed foods, confectionery, plastics, and packaging. However, exporters must navigate market-entry requirements, transport costs, and price competition.
The study highlights pharmaceuticals as a major opportunity, noting that Uzbekistan imported about $1.111 billion worth in 2024, while Jordan exported roughly $728 million of such products globally. This suggests a viable foundation for Jordan to enhance its market presence. Additionally, opportunities exist in sweets, chocolate, bakery products, plastics and packaging materials, and preserved plant-based products.
Uzbekistan's economy, which grew by 7.7 percent in 2025 with a GDP of about $147 billion, presents a significant market in Central Asia. Yet, Jordanian exporters face challenges, including customs preferences for products from Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries, high transport costs, and stringent regulatory requirements imposed by Uzbek authorities.
The study also emphasizes the competitive landscape, with Russian and Kazakh products entering duty-free, while Jordanian goods are subject to tariffs. China's production scale and geographic advantages further intensify competition. The pharmaceutical sector, in particular, requires product registration with Uzbekistan's Ministry of Health and compliance with new good manufacturing practice (GMP) certification by January 1, 2026.
A preferential trade agreement between Jordan and Uzbekistan is still under negotiation, which could enhance the competitiveness of Jordanian products. Companies are advised to identify customs classifications, conformity requirements, and duties, select local partners, complete necessary certifications, and conduct trial shipments before regular supply.
Specialized trade fairs in Tashkent, including UzFood, O'zPack, Power Uzbekistan, UzMedExpo, and InterPackExpo, are recommended as platforms to expand commercial networks and engage with potential buyers. Ultimately, the study concludes that increasing Jordanian exports to Uzbekistan requires overcoming technical challenges, controlling costs, building local partnerships, and offering competitive products.