Uzbekistan Expresses Interest in Importing U.S. Cotton

Uzbekistan has shown interest in importing cotton from the United States, according to the Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade (MIIT).

Discussions on potential purchases took place in late July between Uzbek officials and representatives of the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Cotton Council International. The proposed deliveries would be facilitated through Washington’s GSM-102 credit guarantee program, which supports agricultural exports.

The two sides also explored the launch of a «Made from U.S. Cotton» initiative to promote products made using American raw cotton.

In 2024, the U.S. harvested 14.4 mln bales of cotton, marking a 19% year-on-year increase. The total cultivated area was estimated at 11.2 mln acres, according to the USDA.

MIIT also held talks with U.S. companies on expanding Uzbek business presence in the American market. The agenda included the possibility of selling Uzbek products via U.S.-based online marketplaces.

Kursiv Uzbekistan also reports that authorities in Navoi have temporarily halted operations at 22 industrial facilities following serious environmental violations linked to air, soil and water pollution.