
Uzbekistan has taken a significant step toward sustainable industrial development by successfully hosting a capacity-building seminar on eco-industrial parks (EIPs) in Tashkent.
The event, organized by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in partnership with the Institute of Legislation and Legal Policy (ILLP), gathered over 30 participants, including government officials, industry leaders, and international experts. The seminar focused on advancing Uzbekistan’s industrial zones into sustainable, eco-friendly hubs.
The seminar featured prominent speakers, including representatives from the Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade, GIZ, UNIDO, and other international and national experts. The key discussion addressed the 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. Hudoyqulov Uchqun, 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 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.
Mr. Mukhtarov Khojiislom, 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 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.
Following 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.
Nasiba Ziyodullayeva, UzA