Overview of Trade and Economic Cooperation Between Uzbekistan and Malaysia

The Center for Economic Research and Reforms (CERR) has prepared an infographic analyzing the key aspects of trade, economic, and investment cooperation between Uzbekistan and Malaysia over the past eight years. The infographic highlights the dynamics of trade turnover, key export and import directions, as well as investment volumes, providing insights into opportunities for further collaboration.

Development Dynamics

In recent years, trade and economic relations between Uzbekistan and Malaysia have grown significantly, as evidenced by increased trade turnover and active engagement across various sectors. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1992, the two countries have been striving to strengthen ties, which has become particularly relevant in recent years.

Trade Between Uzbekistan and Malaysia

From 2017 to 2024, trade turnover between Uzbekistan and Malaysia increased 1.6 times, from $65.5 million to $102.4 million. Exports grew 1.3 times, while imports rose 1.6 times, reflecting the growing mutual interest in trade between the two countries.

Over the past eight years, Uzbekistan’s main export items to Malaysia have included chemical fertilizers and services, while imports have been dominated by palm oil, animal and vegetable oils, chemicals and detergents, food products, finished goods, and services.

In 2024, Uzbekistan’s exports amounted to $6 million, with 41% comprising food products, including vegetables, legumes, and fruits, and 55% consisting of chemicals, primarily fertilizers.

Imports from Malaysia in 2024 totaled $96.4 million, with the following breakdown: 23% food products (cocoa powder, coffee extracts, sauces, and confectionery); 44% animal and vegetable fats (including palm and coconut oil); 14% chemicals (detergents, alcohol-based mixtures); 9% machinery and transport equipment; 4% transport services; 2.1% medical products.

Investment Cooperation

Investment cooperation between Uzbekistan and Malaysia demonstrates significant potential for growth and development. As of January 1, 2025, 36 enterprises with Malaysian investments are registered in Uzbekistan, reflecting growing interest in the Uzbek market.

Between 2017 and 2024, the total volume of foreign direct investment and loans from Malaysia to Uzbekistan amounted to $12.9 million.

The primary sectors of Malaysian investment include food production, leather goods manufacturing, and wholesale trade.

Conclusion

Trade and economic cooperation between Uzbekistan and Malaysia holds significant potential for further development. The growing mutual interest in trade and investment provides opportunities to strengthen ties in key sectors of the economy. This collaboration can contribute to economic growth, job creation, and improved living standards.

To ensure successful development of relations, a comprehensive approach should be adopted, leveraging the existing opportunities to their fullest.

Center for Economic Research and Reforms