Ukraine and Uzbekistan have signed a protocol aimed at liberalizing bilateral and transit cargo transportation. According to this document, Ukrainian cargo carriers will be able to conduct their activities without obtaining permits.
The protocol was signed by the Minister of Restoration, Infrastructure and Transport of Ukraine, Mykola Kalashnyk, and the Minister of Transport of Uzbekistan, Ilhom Makhamov.
According to Kalashnyk, the transition to a permit-free regime will reduce administrative procedures and decrease the time required for Ukrainian carriers. Thus, the number of available permits will no longer restrict such transport operations.
This decision comes against the backdrop of changes in traditional logistics routes between Ukraine and Central Asia. The Ukrainian minister noted that Kyiv is working on creating alternative routes and simplifying transportation conditions for businesses.
The volume of trade between Ukraine and Uzbekistan reached approximately 315 million US dollars in 2025, which is 14% more compared to the previous year. The Ukrainian side believes that simplifying road freight transport will open up new opportunities for developing trade between the two countries.
Ukraine is constantly expanding the geography of its so-called 'visa-free transport regime.' Kalashnyk reported that liberalized cargo transportation is already in effect with 38 countries, including European Union member states.
The Ukrainian minister expressed gratitude to the Uzbek side and personally to Ilhom Makhamov for the cooperation and signing of the decision aimed at simplifying the work of carriers and strengthening business ties between the two countries.