India Pharma Outlook Team | Monday, 08 June 2026
Indian pharma companies could soon find a new growth destination in Central Asia as Uzbekistan intensifies efforts to attract foreign investment in its pharmaceutical sector.
The country has signaled its willingness to offer additional incentives to Indian pharma firms while aiming to establish itself as a regional pharmaceutical manufacturing and supply hub.
The move reflects Uzbekistan’s broader strategy to strengthen healthcare infrastructure, reduce reliance on imported medicines, and capitalize on the global reputation of Indian pharmaceutical manufacturers.
Uzbekistan's Deputy Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade, Shokhrukh Gulamov, said the government is ready to provide more support to Indian pharmaceutical companies looking to invest in the country. The announcement comes amid growing economic cooperation between India and Uzbekistan and increasing interest from businesses seeking new markets and manufacturing destinations.
Uzbekistan is exploring a range of measures to make the country more attractive for Indian pharmaceutical companies. These include tax incentives, subsidies, simplified regulations, and support for technology transfer. The government is also working to create a business-friendly environment by streamlining licensing procedures and reducing bureaucratic hurdles.
Officials believe that encouraging foreign investment will help strengthen domestic pharmaceutical production and improve access to quality medicines. By attracting established Indian drug manufacturers, Uzbekistan hopes to accelerate the development of its healthcare and pharmaceutical ecosystem.
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The Central Asian nation has set an ambitious goal of becoming a regional hub for pharmaceutical manufacturing and distribution. Uzbekistan's strategic location offers access to several neighboring markets, making it an attractive base for export-oriented production.
To support this vision, the country is promoting industrial zones and encouraging joint ventures between local and foreign companies. Authorities are also focusing on strengthening intellectual property protection and enhancing infrastructure to support long-term growth in the pharmaceutical sector.
By building a stronger manufacturing base, Uzbekistan aims to reduce dependence on imported medicines while creating a reliable supply chain for the wider region.
The push for deeper pharmaceutical cooperation is taking place against a backdrop of strengthening economic relations between the two countries. Bilateral trade between India and Uzbekistan reached approximately USD 1.317 billion in 2025, representing a 33.3 percent increase compared to the previous year.
The growing relationship is further reflected in the increasing presence of Indian businesses in Uzbekistan. As of May 2026, there were 397 Indian-invested enterprises operating in the country, including 311 joint ventures.
The two nations have also signed 117 bilateral agreements covering trade, investment, and strategic cooperation. These agreements include an investment protection framework aimed at encouraging greater business collaboration.
For Indian pharmaceutical companies, Uzbekistan presents an opportunity to expand beyond traditional export markets. The country's geographic position allows easier access to Central Asian economies, making it a potentially important gateway for regional distribution.
As global pharmaceutical companies continue to diversify manufacturing operations and strengthen supply chains, Uzbekistan's location and government support could make it an attractive destination for future investments. Indian firms could benefit from lower market-entry barriers, favorable policies, and access to new consumer markets.
The growing demand for affordable and high-quality medicines across the region further enhances the attractiveness of the opportunity.
The partnership offers advantages for both sides. Uzbekistan stands to gain through increased domestic manufacturing, job creation, technology transfer, and improved healthcare access. A stronger pharmaceutical sector could also support the country's ambition of becoming a key medicine supplier in Central Asia.
For Indian pharma companies, the collaboration could unlock new avenues for growth, strengthen regional presence, and provide access to emerging markets with long-term potential.
With supportive policies, expanding trade relations, and increasing business cooperation, Uzbekistan is positioning itself as a promising destination for Indian pharmaceutical investment. The initiative could mark a significant step toward deeper economic engagement between the two countries while supporting the growth of the regional healthcare sector.
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