Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — A regional conference dedicated to the development of e-commerce in Central Asian countries was held in Tashkent.

The event was organized by the World Bank with support from the National Agency for Advanced Projects of the Republic of Uzbekistan and took place within the framework of the “Expanding Access to Global Markets through E-commerce” (E-GATE) program.

Participants and Topics

The conference brought together representatives from relevant ministries and agencies responsible for digital economy development across Central Asia, as well as e-commerce and entrepreneurship associations. Discussions involved experts from the World Bank Group and representatives from companies such as Alibaba, DHL, Lenovo, Jumia, Uzum, UzPost, among others.

Participants examined key challenges and barriers hindering the growth of e-commerce in the region. It was estimated that the combined e-commerce market of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan totals around $3 billion, yet holds significantly greater potential.

Major obstacles identified included weak internet infrastructure, high and limited logistics capabilities, low digital literacy levels, predominance of cash payments, and complex tax regulations. A substantial share of online sales still occurs informally through social media platforms.

E-GATE Program: Goals and Achievements

Launched by the World Bank in 2023 and financially supported by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), the E-GATE program operates in Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. It aims to eliminate barriers to e-commerce, support entrepreneurship, and integrate local companies into global trade platforms. Special emphasis is placed on micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and promoting women's participation in the digital economy.

A key focus of the program is developing the export potential of MSMEs through the Alibaba.com platform. In 2024, a competitive selection identified 83 companies from the three countries, including over 30 from Uzbekistan. All participants received free access to paid Alibaba.com memberships and completed more than 70 specialized training sessions covering various e-commerce aspects—from logistics and taxation to customer service and export contract negotiation.

Concrete Results and Success Stories

As a result of their participation, companies have signed or are in the process of signing export contracts totaling over $23 million, with $16 million attributed to intra-regional transactions. Participants expanded into new markets across more than 70 countries.

Uzbek MSMEs concluded contracts worth approximately $5 million. The most in-demand products included textiles and food items, such as nuts, frozen, and dried fruits. The main export destinations were the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates, and New Zealand. The conference showcased success stories of Uzbek companies that achieved outstanding results within the E-GATE framework.

Conclusions and Next Steps

Experts emphasized the need to develop logistics infrastructure, improve the legislative framework, and increase participation of women and youth in e-commerce.

An important outcome of the conference was the signing of a memorandum of understanding between the e-commerce associations of Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan. The document foresees strategic cooperation in e-commerce, including regulatory reform, digital infrastructure development, employment expansion, and support for cross-border trade in the region.