The activities of so-called 'export ambassadors' representing Uzbekistan will be launched in 25 countries around the world. These representatives will provide support to local enterprises regarding entry into international markets, establishing contacts with trade networks, and obtaining required certification.
President Shavkat Mirziyoyev announced this new program during an open meeting with representatives of the business community. Initially, the focus is on 20 countries that account for 60% of Uzbekistan's total exports, as well as five additional promising directions.
The selection of candidates for the positions of 'export ambassadors' will be carried out by the entrepreneurs who supply the largest volume of goods to that country. It is planned that the expenses related to the travel and accommodation of these ambassadors will be compensated.
In addition, a number of support measures are being introduced for Uzbek companies. They will be allowed to continue exporting even if payment for previously shipped goods has not yet been received. The requirement for a 50% prepayment in the invoice is also abolished, and the deadline for crediting foreign currency revenue when working through distributors and trading houses is extended to one year.
These relaxations also apply in cases of overdue debt on export transactions. By the end of the current year, funds deposited by the entrepreneur into a bank account to repay such debt will be counted as export revenue.
It was previously noted that the Khorezm region holds leading positions among the regions of Uzbekistan in terms of the share of small businesses in exports, which reached 81%.
