Uzbekistan to plan 2027 economy under “mobilization scenario”

Uzbekistan is preparing its economic strategy for 2027 by developing macroeconomic parameters, budget, investment, and export programs under a "mobilization scenario." This proactive approach comes amid significant uncertainty in the global economy, prompting President Shavkat Mirziyoyev to order the creation of contingency plans.

During a recent meeting, President Mirziyoyev highlighted issues within the agricultural sector, noting that 325,000 tons of potatoes remained unsold due to lower procurement prices this year. He specifically criticized the absence of effective commodity intervention systems at local levels. Mirziyoyev stressed the importance of purchasing potatoes for the state reserve at profitable prices for producers, with these reserves intended for release during shortages to stabilize market prices.

Furthermore, the president pointed out deficiencies in the infrastructure for storing fruits and vegetables across the regions. He noted that no new cold storage facilities were commissioned in Karakalpakstan, Andijan, Jizzakh, Surkhandarya, and Tashkent regions during the first half of the year. The government aims to rectify this by commissioning 340 cold storage facilities with a combined capacity of 87,000 tons by the end of the year.

Regional governors (hokims) were tasked with increasing the volume of regional food funds by 2.5 times, reaching 500 billion soums (approximately $41.24 million). However, except for a few regions, these funds have not yet been transferred.

Addressing external risks, Mirziyoyev acknowledged the unpredictable duration of global economic uncertainty and its potential impact on Uzbekistan's exporters. He urged industry and regional leaders to prepare by mobilizing available reserves and considering potential risks. Analytical centers and a newly formed Economic Council with working groups in nine areas are tasked with preparing proposals for each industry and region by August 15.