Centrum Logistics Group on January 30 released the Uzbekistan Logistics Report 2024, Uzbekistan's first comprehensive annual analysis of its logistics sector, covering air, rail, road transport and warehousing. The report is said to mark a significant step towards elevating Uzbekistan's logistics capabilities to a global standard.

Bobur Sirojiddinov, general director of Centrum Logistics Group, emphasised the report's importance, stating, "Our comprehensive report illuminates the strategic path forward for Uzbekistan’s logistics sector. It provides stakeholders with a clear vision of the immense opportunities and the actionable steps needed to elevate our logistics capabilities to a global standard.”

The World Bank reports Uzbekistan's freight demand at 194.6mn tonnes and 77.6bn tonne-kilometres. To meet this demand, the government is developing logistics hubs in Angren, Navoi, Pap, Tashkent and Termez. However, the sector is currently challenged by an imbalance between demand and supply in freight and warehousing services, influencing both costs and adaptability in the market.

Trade turnover with China increased to $14bn in 2023, up from $9.7bn in 2022, meaning China remained Uzbekistan's leading trade partner and remained greatly prominent in consideration of how to develop logistics infrastructure.

The report also highlights a shift in the logistics sector towards digitalisation and automation.

Addressing Uzbekistan’s unique geographical challenges, Sirojiddinov said, “By harnessing our nation’s unique geographic position and embracing technological innovation, we can transform challenges into growth and position Uzbekistan as a pivotal hub in the international trade landscape.”

Centrum Logistics Group reported an increase in cargo turnover to 61,234 TEU in 2023, a rise from 44,916 TEU in 2022. The World Bank's forecast for the region of Europe and Central Asia indicates 2.7% of GDP growth in 2025, with Uzbekistan expected to grow at 5.8%.

The Uzbekistan Logistics Report 2024 is available in English, Uzbek and Russian on the Centrum Logistics Group website.