The rapid growth of Uzbekistan
Footwear industry generates incredible numbers
It’s almost impossible to ignore the figures: Uzbekistan’s footwear production has risen from about 10 million pairs of shoes in 2017 to an expected 246 million this year. At the same time, exports of leather goods and footwear rose from 85 million US dollars in 2017 to 460 million in 2022 and they are on track to reach 600 million by the end of the year. These numbers come from Uzbekistan’s Association of Leather and Footwear Producers (Uzcharmsanoat), whose main tasks are to create favourable conditions for business development, protect the rights and interests of entrepreneurs and support investment and export activities.
“The basis for such rapid growth is the localisation of import-substituting products, convenient infrastructure, training of professional personnel, sufficient raw material base in Central Asia, as well as full support of the industry from our state,” said Boboev Fakhriddin, the Association’s Chairman. “Enterprises in the leather and footwear industry enjoy a whole package of benefits and preferences, customs and tax breaks: namely exemption from customs duties on the import of equipment, parts and components, raw materials, materials and accessories not produced in Uzbekistan, a zero rate for a list of 227 goods, exemption from a number of types of taxes until 2026.” When asked how Uzbekistan’s footwear industry will evolve in the future, the answer is simple: “Just as fast as it is now. In recent years, a colossal leap forward has been made. Therefore, today the main task is to maintain and increase the dynamics of the industry’s development, to increase both quantitative and qualitative indicators.” The aim is “to transform Uzbekistan into a production hub for the leather, footwear and fur industries throughout Central Asia.”