Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — What is the export potential of Uzbekistan's regions? Which areas are actively penetrating foreign markets, and which are lagging behind?

To answer these questions, the Center for Progressive Reforms has developed the PIM Export Index — a comprehensive ranking system that assesses the overall export performance of the country's regions. This tool serves as an important analytical instrument for monitoring and shaping export policies.

What is the PIM Export Index?

The PIM Export Index evaluates the export potential of each region using four main indicators:

Export volume — the total value of exported goods;

Export growth rate — the dynamics over the past three years;

Geographical coverage — the number of countries to which exports are delivered;

Export diversification — the variety of goods exported.

Each indicator is normalized, and the final score is calculated with the following weightings: volume (30%), growth (20%), geography (30%), and diversification (20%).

Leaders: Tashkent City and Tashkent Region

Tashkent city leads the PIM Export Index with a score of 95.7. The capital shows outstanding performance in terms of export volume (US$5.5 billion), product diversity, and geographical reach, with exports delivered to 100 countries.

In second place is Tashkent region with 79.9 points. The strong showing of these two regions is directly linked to their developed production and logistics infrastructure.

These areas also exhibit high export activity and a growing number of small and medium-sized exporters, which contributes to the sector’s resilience and scalability.

Regions with Steady Growth

Samarkand (63.5 points), Andijan (59.2), Fergana (57.9), and Khorezm (55.9) regions hold solid positions in the index, showing gradual increases in export volume. Notably, Khorezm ranks second in geographical coverage. These regions are developing export-oriented industrial clusters and strengthening diversification efforts.

Regions with Low but Promising Potential

Surkhandarya (38.5), Syrdarya (33.5), and Navoi (27.3) regions scored the lowest in the index. Key challenges include:

Geographic isolation and high transportation costs (Surkhandarya),

Limited product range for export (Syrdarya),

Sharp decline in export volume and limited market access (Navoi).

Despite these challenges, these regions hold significant growth potential. The development of agro-industrial clusters, logistics infrastructure, and stronger ties with foreign markets could help them rise on the export map.

Regional Gaps and Strategic Insights

The PIM Export Index reveals significant disparities in the export capacity of Uzbekistan’s regions — differences driven largely by economic development, infrastructure quality, and international engagement.

Tashkent city and region remain strategic hubs of national export, marked by competitive products, market expansion, and an active exporter base.

Mid-ranked regions demonstrate stable growth and, with support from the government and local initiatives, have the potential to achieve stronger results.

Lower-ranked regions require a comprehensive approach and targeted support mechanisms. Investments in infrastructure, improved logistics, and increased product diversification can significantly enhance their export performance.

The PIM Export Index is a vital analytical tool for refining regional export strategies, allocating resources efficiently, and making informed policy decisions. It lays the groundwork for a competitive and balanced export model for Uzbekistan. Leveraging the unique potential of each region is essential as the country seeks to expand both the geography and the diversity of its national exports.