Uzbekistan's foreign trade turnover totaled $24.6 billion in January–April 2025, marking a 16.3% increase compared to the same period last year, Uzreport.uz reports.
Growth in exports combined with moderate import dynamics has significantly reduced the country's trade deficit, according to official statistics.
The key driver of positive performance was exports, which grew by 35.1% during the reporting period to reach $11.88 billion. Gold shipments made the largest contribution to this result, totaling $5.48 billion. Meanwhile, exports of traditional goods—including textiles, automobiles, steel, and petroleum products—declined.
Import volume over the four-month period amounted to $12.72 billion, increasing by just 2.9% year-on-year. Thanks to the faster growth of exports, Uzbekistan's trade deficit shrank more than fourfold: from $3.58 billion in January–April 2024 to $846.3 million in the same period of 2025.
China retained its position as Uzbekistan's largest trade partner, with bilateral turnover reaching $4.18 billion (+5.6%). Russia ranked second at $3.7 billion (−3%).
The top five partners are completed by:
- Kazakhstan — $1.39 billion (growth);
- Turkey — $834 million;
- South Korea — $584.1 million.
Among this group, positive dynamics were recorded only in trade with Kazakhstan.
Other significant trade partners of Uzbekistan include Afghanistan, France, Germany, India, and the United Arab Emirates.
Experts note that the reduction in the trade deficit reflects improved competitiveness of Uzbek goods in foreign markets and the effectiveness of state export support measures. At the same time, reliance on gold exports creates volatility risks: further diversification of the export portfolio remains a strategic priority to ensure sustainable growth in foreign trade turnover.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
February 25, 2026