UNDP and the Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan conducted a series of regional trainings on EU export rules

June 20, 2024

Photo: the participants of the training sitting around the table

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in cooperation with the Ministry of Investments, Industry and Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan, conducted a series of regional trainings from June 10 to 19, 2024. The trainings, dedicated to the topics “EU Regulations on Fresh and Processed Fruits and Vegetables” and “How to Export Fruits and Vegetables to EU Countries” were held in all regions of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Republic of Karakalpakstan.

The European Union is one of the largest markets in the world, and its member states import a wide range of goods from around the globe. However, exporting to the EU can be a complex and challenging process, especially for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that lack the resources and experience to meet the various rules and requirements.

The goal is to increase awareness and knowledge of local producers and exporters about the requirements and standards of the European Union for fruits and vegetables. This will help them prepare and export successfully, increasing exports of Uzbek fruit and vegetables to the EU and promoting the development of sustainable production methods and improved product quality.

Photo: training presentation and UNDP banner

More than 180 people, including representatives of regional khokimiyats related to exports and entrepreneurs-exporters of local enterprises in 12 regions of the Republic of Uzbekistan, in the city of Tashkent and the Republic of Karakalpakstan took part in the trainings.

During the trainings, special attention was paid to product certification, compliance with phytosanitary regulations and quality standards, as well as marketing strategies for successful promotion of Uzbek fruits and vegetables in the European market. In addition, current trends and consumer demands in foreign markets were discussed, helping Uzbek farmers adapt their products to the requirements of the global market.

“I have acquired the necessary knowledge and tools for successful export to EU countries. Previously, I thought exporting to EU countries was very complicated and practically impossible. But after this training, I learned that our entrepreneurs have good potential for entering the EU markets. The information was presented very openly and accessibly. We received all the answers we were looking for. The atmosphere at the training was pleasant and friendly! Thank you again for this opportunity.”

At the end of the training, one of the participants, Bekmurodov Shavkat from “Meva Sabzavot” LLC, shared his impressions.

Conducting such trainings is a crucial step towards strengthening Uzbekistan’s export potential and enhancing the competitiveness of local products on the international stage. This also contributes to the development of sustainable production methods and product quality improvement, which in turn enhances the reputation of Uzbek fruits and vegetables in global markets.

The training was held within the framework of the UNDP project ‘Aid for Trade in Central Asia’ funded by the Government of Finland and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme in partnership with the Ministry of Investments, Industry and Trade of Uzbekistan. The overall objective of the project is to support Central Asian countries in promoting inclusive and sustainable growth through promoting green value chains, increasing the competitiveness of economies, and contributing to building more resilient, secure, and gender-responsive economic structures through economic diversification and adaptation to new trends caused by COVID-19.

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