In Baghdad, Iraq, Chairman of the Customs Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan A. Mavlonov held a bilateral meeting with the Director General of the General Customs Commission of Iraq, Thamer Qasim Dawood.

In recent years, friendship and cooperation between Uzbekistan and Iraq have entered a new stage. In particular, the trade turnover between the two countries has increased by 43 percent over the past two years.

Uzbekistan primarily exports food products, tobacco, and chemical goods to Iraq, while it mainly imports fuel, energy resources, and petroleum products from Iraq.

The growth in trade volumes requires strengthening cooperation between the two countries’ customs authorities and, above all, establishing a legal framework for collaboration. To this end, the draft agreement on cooperation in customs matters was discussed in detail during the meeting.

Detailed information was also presented during the meeting on achievements in the digitalization of Uzbekistan’s customs authorities and the use of artificial intelligence. Particular note was made of the work of the National Canine Center, which holds regional status within the World Customs Organization, as well as the Customs Institute, which has received international accreditation under PICARD standards.

The parties expressed their readiness to cooperate to simplify customs clearance procedures for mutual trade and to provide comprehensive support to entrepreneurs.

It should be recalled that from February 1 to 7 this year, around 200 Uzbek entrepreneurs are participating in the Baghdad International Fair, held in Iraq.

As part of the national Made in Uzbekistan exhibition, food and textile products, light industry goods, construction materials, electrical equipment, and agricultural products are being showcased.

Sh. Mamaturopova, UzA