The Kurdistan Region and Uzbekistan are expanding economic cooperation through new trade and investment agreements. Business leaders and government representatives from both sides gathered in Tashkent to discuss strategic partnerships and future opportunities.
The Kurdistan Region-Uzbekistan Economic Forum brought together companies, investors, and officials from both markets. The event focused on increasing trade, encouraging private-sector cooperation, and creating long-term economic partnerships.
Uzbekistan sees the Kurdistan Region as a gateway to the Middle East. Meanwhile, the Kurdistan Region aims to become a bridge between Central Asia and regional markets. Both sides believe stronger business ties can create new opportunities for investors and companies.
Nawzad Ghafoor, president of the Sulaimani Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said nearly 150 Kurdish businesspeople attended the forum. They joined around 161 Uzbek business leaders and investors to explore cooperation opportunities.
Ghafoor highlighted several promising sectors, including agriculture, chemical industries, mining, gold, and manufacturing. He said companies from both sides are expected to sign strategic agreements that will support economic growth and create mutual benefits.
He also praised Uzbekistan’s experience in attracting foreign investment. Ghafoor noted that Uzbekistan has attracted around $70 billion in foreign investment and has improved its investment laws to support international businesses.
The Kurdistan Region and Uzbekistan have increased economic cooperation in recent years. In December 2025, an Uzbek business delegation visited the Kurdistan Region. During that visit, companies signed several memorandums of understanding to encourage investment and private-sector partnerships.
The latest forum builds on those efforts. Discussions have also continued over establishing an Uzbek Trade Center in Erbil. The center would provide a permanent platform for businesses from both sides. It would also help increase trade and improve market access.
The planned trade center could strengthen the Kurdistan Region’s role as a regional commercial hub. It would connect Central Asian producers with Middle Eastern markets while giving Kurdish companies access to new opportunities in Uzbekistan.
The Kurdistan Region and Uzbekistan trade partnership reflects a broader effort to expand economic relations beyond traditional markets. Both sides aim to transform business discussions into practical projects, investment agreements, and stronger regional connections.
As cooperation continues, officials expect more companies to explore opportunities in agriculture, industry, and technology. The growing partnership could create new jobs, attract investment, and support economic diversification in both markets.
