Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Uzbekistan is rapidly transforming from a raw material supplier into one of the emerging hubs of global textile manufacturing. Timur Bazarov, head of department at the Ministry of Investments, Industry and Trade (MIIT), highlighted this shift in his article “Textile Revolution in Uzbekistan: How the Country Is Becoming a New Production Center for Global Brands.”

According to him, dozens of Uzbek enterprises already work directly with companies such as LC Waikiki, The North Face, and Inditex, proving that the country can offer not only cotton but also high-quality finished products.

“As of today, 66 enterprises in Uzbekistan are cooperating with international brands, including LC Waikiki, Prof Max, Terranova, Defacto, and Germany’s Murk GmbH & Co KG Mens Fashion,” Bazarov noted. He emphasized that in just the past three years, partnerships have been established with more than 80 foreign companies, including Disney, Engelbert Strauss, Collins, and Carrera Jeans.

Production capacities are spread across the country, with Namangan region and Tashkent leading in the number of enterprises engaged with global brands. Annual output now exceeds 850,000 tons of textile products. Bazarov cited examples such as Uztex Group in Khorezm, producing 160,000 tons of goods for major retailers; Navbahor Textile in Navoi region, partnering with French brand GEMO; and Global Textile in Fergana region, supplying knitwear to Kiabi.

According to MIIT, in 2024 alone, enterprises in the sector produced goods worth 12.9 trillion soums. Exports reached US$435.4 million, accounting for 42% of total output. The industry now employs more than 37,500 people.

Authorities expect that in 2025, the launch of 20 new production lines will boost the output of finished clothing and fabrics, attract US$84 million in foreign investment, and create over 4,000 new jobs.

“The shift from raw cotton exports to branded product manufacturing is already delivering tangible results. If current trends continue, Uzbekistan has the potential to secure a strong position in the global fashion supply chain,” Bazarov stressed.