Uzbekistan has reportedly witnessed a substantial surge in the export of fruits and vegetables.

The Uzbek president’s official website said on February 2 that President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has held a meeting to diыcuss issues related to development of fruit-and-vegetable and food industries.

At a video conference that took place on January 18 the head of state outlined tasks on development of the fruit-and-vegetable industry, according to the Uzbek president’s official website. 

The meeting reportedly discussed the tasks set for this year. 

Relevant officials reportedly reported on the possibility of increasing the export of agricultural products to 3.5 billion US dollars this year.   

It was noted that as part of expansion of the international collaboration, exports will be focused on more expensive markets and phytosanitary permits will be obtained from another eight countries.

Meanwhile, citing Uzbekistan’s Agency for Statistics, asia24.media reports that Uzbekistan exported fruits and vegetables exceeding US$1.1 billion in total value.  The total exports during the period from January to December 2023 amounted to 1.7 million tons of fruits and vegetables, marking an increase of 18,900 tons compared to the same period in 2022.

This growth in export volume represents a 1.1% increase compared to the corresponding period in 2022 and a notable 3.3% rise in terms of overall value.

Russia is reportedly the largest importer with a share of 37%. Following closely were Pakistan with a share of 16.7%, China with 12.3%, and Kazakhstan with 10.3%. These four nations collectively accounted for a significant portion of Uzbekistan's fruit and vegetable exports.