Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — During the official visit of Uzbekistan’s government delegation to China, Chairman of the Uzcharm­sanoat Association Akbar Sultanov held talks with the leadership of the China Leather Industry Association.

The discussions focused on expanding bilateral cooperation in the leather and footwear industry, implementing joint investment projects, and developing broader industrial cooperation.

“Uzbekistan is a strategic partner for Chinese companies thanks to its abundant raw material resources, strong production potential, and advantageous geographic location. Direct cooperation within small industrial zones is particularly important,” noted Lu Hua, a representative of the Chinese association.

The Uzbek side presented detailed information on specialized leather and footwear industrial zones in Fergana, Andijan, Tashkent, Jizzakh, and other regions. These sites drew special interest from the Chinese delegation as promising platforms for joint operations.

The talks also highlighted opportunities for importing high-tech equipment, production lines, and specialized materials from China, with subsequent localization in Uzbekistan.

The year 2025 is marked by intensifying global competition in the manufacturing sector. Vietnam, India, and Bangladesh are already pursuing aggressive cooperation models with China. In this context, Uzbekistan aims to secure technological integration in the industry and strengthen its position in the global market.

Today, the China Leather Industry Association unites over 1,000 enterprises and exports products worth more than $10 billion annually. Collaboration with the Association could become a gateway for Uzbek manufacturers to access the world’s largest consumer market.