Uzbekistan has held discussions with H&M Group on integrating the country’s textile and garment manufacturers into international supply chains, with both sides agreeing to organise a business mission to Uzbekistan.
The online meeting brought together Uzbekistan’s Ambassador Alisher Tukhtaev, Deputy Director of the Agency for the Development of Light Industry Rukhullo Zikrillaev, and Ziaur Rahman, H&M Group’s regional director for Pakistan, Bangladesh and Africa, according to Dunyo Information Agency.
The participants discussed opportunities to increase exports of value-added textile products, connect Uzbek manufacturers with international buyers and develop cooperation with global brands.
Uzbekistan Highlights Integrated Production Chain
During the meeting, Tukhtaev outlined reforms in Uzbekistan’s light industry and measures to attract foreign investment.
Uzbek representatives highlighted the country’s production chain, which extends from cotton cultivation and yarn manufacturing to fabric production, dyeing, finishing, garments and knitwear.
They said all raw cotton grown in Uzbekistan is processed domestically. Light-industry exports have reached approximately $4 billion, with products supplied to 75 countries, according to the figures presented during the talks.
Support for International Buyer Requirements
The discussions also covered ways to help Uzbek manufacturers meet the sourcing requirements of H&M and other international brands.
Proposals included developing export-oriented product ranges, strengthening marketing and sales capabilities, establishing direct contact with international buyers and attracting new orders.
Rahman acknowledged Uzbekistan’s integrated textile production capabilities and identified European market preferences, government support for manufacturers and the country’s geographical position as potential advantages.
According to Dunyo, the H&M representative expressed interest in supporting efforts to promote Uzbek textile products among brands in Europe and other markets.
Read more:Â H&M Group and EY Highlight Business Case for Supply Chain Decarbonisation
H&M Delegation to Visit Uzbekistan
The parties agreed to organise a business mission to Uzbekistan, where H&M representatives would be able to visit textile, garment and knitwear manufacturers and assess their production capabilities.
The discussions represent an exploratory step toward cooperation. The report did not disclose dates for the visit or details of any confirmed sourcing contracts.
