Reports have emerged in the U.S. Congress about the intention to expand economic cooperation with Uzbekistan. According to the agency "Uzdaily," Congresswoman Carol Miller expressed support during hearings for granting the republic the status of Permanent Normal Trade Relations (PNTR). She noted that this step would serve as a foundation for strengthening bilateral relations and creating conditions for relocating supply chains from China to Central Asia.
Carol Miller also emphasized the importance of the region's investment attractiveness for American companies. In her opinion, obtaining PNTR status would create confidence for long-term investments in critically important sectors, such as the extraction and processing of rare earth metals. The Congresswoman reminded that for the Jackson-Vanik amendment to be lifted, Uzbekistan must officially join the World Trade Organization (WTO). In this context, the republic is demonstrating significant progress, having successfully completed numerous bilateral negotiations and reaffirmed its commitment to international trade standards.
During the discussion, major commercial projects were also addressed, including contracts for the supply of 22 aircraft from Boeing for Uzbek airlines. This position was supported by Kelly Ann Shaw, a partner at the law firm Akin, who noted that WTO membership would be an important step for Tashkent in obtaining full trading status. Experts agree that granting PNTR status to Central Asian countries would benefit the USA by diversifying production capacities and reducing dependence on imports from China.
The process of Uzbekistan's accession to the WTO is expected to be completed this year. Currently, the republic is in the final stages of agreeing on procedures and completing negotiations, which will open new opportunities in trade relations with the United States.
