Uzbekistan may join the unified customs transit system of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and third countries. This announcement was made by Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov during the meeting of the Eurasian Intergovernmental Council in Almaty on January 31.
The head of the Uzbek government proposed an initiative to eliminate non-tariff barriers. In particular, he emphasized the importance of developing a draft agreement on the mutual non-application of tariff and non-tariff trade restrictions between Uzbekistan and the EAEU.
“To optimize and simplify cargo transportation procedures between our countries, we intend to consider the possibility of Uzbekistan joining the unified customs transit system of the EAEU and third parties,” said Aripov.
The Prime Minister also expressed readiness to explore opportunities for connecting to the financial support mechanism for cooperative projects in various industrial sectors launched within the EAEU.
According to him, Uzbekistan is focused on systematic interaction with the EAEU in the fields of digital technologies and artificial intelligence. To create a common digital space, Abdulla Aripov proposed to connect the republic to the integrated information system of the EAEU and the Digital Union project.
Additionally, the head of the Cabinet advocated for the implementation of innovative agricultural production methods, enhanced scientific work in the field of breeding, smart agriculture, and ensuring stable food supplies. Uzbekistan plans to “actively develop close and productive cooperation” with EAEU members, he emphasized.
In November 2023, the Council of the Eurasian Economic Commission approved the Agreement on the Unified Customs Transit System of the EAEU and third parties. The document aims to simplify and optimize the transportation process by minimizing the actions of controlling agencies and reducing the overhead costs for businesses.
Earlier, Spot reported that lawmakers approved a bill on Uzbekistan's accession to the EAEU Development Bank.