The European Union is becoming an increasingly important trading partner for Uzbekistan, with exports benefiting from the GSP+ preferential trade scheme. Since Uzbekistan received GSP+ beneficiary status in April 2021, more than 6,200 product categories have been eligible for preferential trading conditions. The scheme has helped increase Uzbekistan’s exports to the EU nearly threefold.

Food and agricultural products are an important part of this trade. Compliance with EU requirements, including rules of origin and food safety standards, is helping Uzbek producers expand into new European markets, including Belgium.

In the first half of 2026, Uzbekistan exported 807 tonnes of products to Belgium, worth more than $1 million. Ten Uzbek companies participated in these shipments. The main products included dried plums, dried herbs, beans, raisins, and melons.

Uzbekistan is also using international trade fairs to establish new export contacts. In October, a Made in Uzbekistan stand is planned at SIAL Paris 2026, allowing local companies to hold direct talks with potential European buyers and develop new business relationships.

Access to the European market increasingly depends on meeting strict quality, phytosanitary, veterinary and sanitary requirements. Uzbekistan is upgrading its regulatory framework as it moves toward accession to the World Trade Organisation and is providing businesses with information on changes to market requirements.

More than 30 international phytosanitary norms and standards have already been incorporated into national legislation and are being introduced across the supply chain, from production to export.

Uzbekistan aims to further increase its exports to international markets in the coming years. The government plans to continue work on expanding export volumes to $10 billion, while stronger compliance with international food safety and quality standards is expected to support the country’s position in European supply chains.

Source: uzbekistan24tv