DP World has signed a framework agreement with Uzbekistan, which is expected to enable the UAE-based port operator to expand its presence in the Asian country, boosting global trade flow and supporting the development of digital infrastructure.
The agreements cover broad areas of cooperation, including the establishment of a new inland logistics network to support the expansion of the Navoi Free Economic Zone (FEZ) and the cargo terminal at Navoi International Airport, as well as the launch of new consumer e-commerce and fintech platforms in the country, and streamlining customs operations, according to a statement.
In particular, DP World will become a strategic partner for Navoi FEZ and the connectivity of the Navoi air cargo terminal linking it to major international hubs, leveraging the company’s expertise in developing, owning, and operating the Jebel Ali Free Zone (JAFZA), the world’s largest free zone, in Dubai.
DP World will also deploy its Port Community System by Cargoes, to provide stakeholders in trade and logistics with paperless access to services including dry ports, logistics parks, railway stations and depots.
“Our agreements will help design and shape a world-class trading ecosystem in the country,” stated Sultan bin Ahmed Sulayem, DP World’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, who pointed out that the Uzbekistan economy continues to grow at a strong pace.
Furthermore, DP World will establish a rail and road-linked, inland logistics network in order to offer customers efficient solutions across all major distribution and consumption centres in and around Uzbekistan’s capital, Tashkent.
It will also develop a road-and-rail linked greenfield site of 1 million m² in the country’s recently established Special Economic Zones, according to a statement.
Sardor Umurzakov, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Investments and Foreign Trade of Uzbekistan, highlighted that the combination of DP World’s experience and capacity with Uzbekistan’s geographical location and favourable business environment will boost regional trade and contribute to further improvement of regional connectivity.
Additionally, DP World will advise and facilitate Uzbekistan Customs streamline processes to reform and modernise processes, supporting the digital transformation of the overall trade facilitation.
Last but not least, the Ministry of Investments and Foreign Trade (MIFT) of the Republic of Uzbekistan and DP World have agreed for the use of a consumer e-commerce platform, called DUBUY.com, which empowers small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and micro-businesses to be expanded and enter new markets.
