Uzbekistan targets $650mln exports to Iraq and Syria by 2026, bolsters Caucasus transport links

Uzbekistan is positioning itself to export goods worth up to $650 million to Iraq and Syria in 2026, while strengthening transport corridors through the Caucasus region, including enhanced ties with Azerbaijan and wider transit opportunities.

Business opportunities in Iraq and Syria are expanding, with Uzbekistan’s exported goods, especially electrical equipment and construction materials, expected to reach $500 million in Iraq and $100–150 million in Syria next year. Iraq alone imports around $93 billion worth of goods annually, making it a significant destination for expanded Uzbek shipments.

Routes through Erbil in northern Iraq serve as strategic logistics hubs that facilitate distribution not only across Iraq but also into neighbouring Syria and beyond to the Middle East. Truck deliveries to Baghdad take roughly 10 working days and cost about $3,300, while routes to Damascus are approximately 20 days at about $4,500.

Uzbekistan is also developing transport connections that link Central Asia with the South Caucasus and Middle East, including corridors involving Azerbaijan. Trade between Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan has been growing strongly, with mutual turnover exceeding $472 million in January–October 2025, about 2.4 times higher than 2024. 

In late December, Uzbek and regional business delegations agreed on cooperation measures, including simplified customs procedures and participation in a trade exhibition in Baghdad in February. A Uzbekistan–Erbil business council was also established to coordinate trade and investment between the two regions.

Visits from Iraqi and Syrian business representatives to Uzbekistan are expected in early 2026, along with a proposed business forum to deepen commercial ties and facilitate B2B meetings.

Officials say that by combining export strategies with stronger transport networks through the Caucasus and improved diplomatic and logistic cooperation, Uzbekistan hopes to unlock new markets and significantly expand its presence across the Middle East and beyond.

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