Uzbekistan and the EU finalized negotiations on services for WTO accession. Azizbek Urunov noted ongoing work on goods negotiations. The EU supports Uzbekistan joining the WTO by 2026. Uzbekistan has concluded talks with 21 countries, with ongoing discussions with others, including Russia and the UK.

Uzbekistan and the European Union have successfully concluded the negotiations pertaining to the services aspect of Uzbekistan’s accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO). Azizbek Urunov, the President’s special representative for WTO affairs, announced the positive outcome on LinkedIn, while still indicating that negotiations regarding goods are ongoing, with a target for completion in the forthcoming months.

During the discussions held in Brussels, the leadership of the Directorate-General for Trade reaffirmed the EU’s unwavering support for Uzbekistan’s ambition to join the WTO by the 14th Ministerial Conference scheduled for 2026 in Cameroon. In November 2024, Uzbekistan had already finalized bilateral negotiations with the United States, marking the completion of discussions with 21 countries regarding its WTO accession.

Additionally, Uzbekistan’s delegation engaged in talks with Russia in March to address remaining issues related to market access as part of the WTO accession process. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev highlighted that the accession process is entering a decisive phase. He assured that despite the withdrawal of certain concessions that conflict with WTO standards, the government remains committed to supporting businesses and fostering a competitive environment.

Deputy Prime Minister Jamshid Khodjayev indicated in May that Uzbekistan intends to achieve full WTO membership before the 2026 Ministerial Conference in Cameroon. Presently, negotiations have been concluded with 21 countries; however, discussions with Russia, the European Union, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, and other nations remain to be completed.

Uzbekistan’s negotiations with the European Union mark a significant milestone in its pursuit of World Trade Organization membership. The country has successfully concluded discussions on the services component and continues to work on goods negotiations. With support from various nations and a commitment to finalizing discussions by 2026, Uzbekistan is progressing towards establishing itself in the global trade framework.

Original Source: www.gazeta.uz

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