On October 25, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev convened a gathering in Karshi to evaluate the socio-economic progress of the Kashkadarya region. It was emphasized that in order to develop the nation, it is essential to combat apathy and work with full commitment. The President asked how to sell products and what help businesses need to do so in the midst of global market volatility and trade restrictions in partner countries.
The primary focus of the meeting was on industry, tourism, agriculture, and entrepreneurship. For instance, entrepreneurs proposed investing $300 million and creating 3.5 thousand jobs on 100 hectares of land in the industrial zones of Dehkanabad, Kitab, and Karshi districts. They also proposed launching $50 million worth of meat, dairy, and vegetable processing projects.
The Head of state made it clear that the economy of Kashkadarya should not depend solely on large enterprises. He noted that the region has the lowest rate of small businesses in industry, and that only 4 percent of the 150 thousand tons of polyethylene granules produced annually are processed in the region. He also highlighted the potential to create a wide range of products based on cement, gypsum, and marble in Kamashi, graphite in Shakhrisabz district, quartz sand in Yakkabag, manganese in Chirakchi, dolomite and clay in Kitab.
The President presented ways to create a favorable infrastructure and increase the number of tourists. For example, a master plan for three tourist mahallas in Shakhrisabz district with an additional investment of $450 million and infrastructure that will attract 1 million tourists per year was presented. This proposal was welcomed by entrepreneurs, and it is expected to generate 500 billion UZS from tourism and create 5 thousand new permanent jobs.
The Head of state also discussed the potential of agriculture in the region. Kashkadarya is the largest producer of grain and cotton in the country. However, the textile industry, which can provide many jobs, processes only 30 percent of its raw materials, and there is no fabric dyeing capacity. Through the development of these industries, it is possible to provide 500 billion UZS in revenue and employ an additional 60 thousand young people and women.
It was also noted that it is necessary to create a textile technology park in the region and attract well-known European brands there. The President also spoke about the need to improve pastures. It was noted that 1.4 million hectares of pastures in the region are a natural food source for 7 million heads of large and small livestock. However, 20 percent of pastures are degraded, and another 25 percent lack green cover. To address this issue, a planting program for 100 thousand hectares of pasture land will be implemented next year. Additionally, seed farms for crops resistant to drought, heat, and desertification will be organized, fruits and vegetables, and medicinal plants will be planted, tree groves will be created, and water-saving technologies will be introduced. Solar pumps will be installed, and a pilot sprinkler irrigation project will be launched.
The President also discussed the issue of providing crops with water, which is becoming more and more difficult every year. He noted that water-saving technologies have been introduced on only 16 percent of 515 thousand hectares. He instructed officials to bring 15 laser levels to the region for the needs of farmers in Kasan, Mirishkor, Kasbi, and Nishan, where the water supply is complex. He also stressed the importance of training personnel for such areas as electrical engineering, the food industry, and the production of building materials. He gave instructions to hokims to determine the need of employers for mid-level specialists and to open practical workshops of employers in education institutions.
The President also noted the increasing incidence of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes due to the problem of excess weight. To address this issue, a modern cardiology center will be created in Kitab together with Russian partners. Plans have been defined for the launch of mobile clinics and the creation of a modern clinic with 600 beds based on the regional multidisciplinary medical center.
The hokim of Kashkadarya region reported on plans for the next year to attract $1 billion in investments, produce industrial products worth 40 trillion UZS, export goods worth $500 million, reduce exports by $200 million, attract 500 thousand foreign tourists and provide jobs for 550 thousand people. Ministers and hokims presented their reports on each agenda item.
The President of Uzbekistan concluded his visit to Kashkadarya region and returned to Tashkent. UzA