Strengthening Economic and Trade Partnerships
Ukraine and the Republic of Uzbekistan have taken a significant step toward enhancing their bilateral trade and economic ties by signing a Protocol amending the existing government agreement to liberalize international road freight transport. Signed by Ukraine’s Minister for Reconstruction, Infrastructure, and Transport Mykola Kalashnyk, and Uzbekistan’s Transport Minister Ilkhom Makhkamov, this agreement allows both bilateral and transit cargo shipments to operate without the need for permits. This change is expected to streamline operations for transport companies and foster improved trade conditions between the two nations.
Previously, freight movement between Ukraine and Uzbekistan was restricted by permit quotas and administrative hurdles, complicating business operations. The newly signed Protocol institutionalizes a permit-free regime at the intergovernmental level, which Minister Kalashnyk highlighted as a crucial practical advancement for Ukrainian carriers. He stated:
“Today marks an important practical milestone for Ukrainian transporters as we shift to a permit-free system for bilateral and transit cargo transportation. Removing these administrative barriers simplifies the work of carriers and creates a more favorable environment for trade development between our countries. Expanding the geographic reach of liberalized road transport and establishing reliable logistics connections with partners is particularly vital for Ukraine.” - Mykola Kalashnyk
Trade Relations Between Ukraine and Uzbekistan
According to recent data, trade between Ukraine and Uzbekistan reached approximately $315 million in 2025, reflecting a 14% increase compared to the previous year. Ukrainian exports to Uzbekistan totaled around $186.5 million, while imports from Uzbekistan stood at $128.5 million. Since the outbreak of the full-scale war, logistics routes connecting Ukraine with Central Asian countries have shifted, increasingly relying on maritime corridors through the Black and Caspian Seas, as well as transit routes via Europe, the South Caucasus, and Central Asia.
Currently, Ukraine maintains liberalized freight transport agreements with 38 countries, including members of the European Union. In June 2026, Ukraine also signed a transport agreement with Albania, granting visa-free conditions for truck cargo shipments. The Protocol with Uzbekistan thus represents a key milestone in expanding Ukraine’s international freight network and strengthening economic cooperation with Central Asian partners.
This development has the potential to significantly enhance collaboration between Ukraine and Uzbekistan by reducing bureaucratic obstacles and simplifying logistics procedures. Liberalizing transport not only increases trade volume but also encourages investment flows into both countries, contributing to their economic growth. As Ukraine actively seeks to broaden its global logistics connections, this agreement underscores its commitment to deepening economic ties with Central Asia.