Pakistani companies view the Navoi region as an emerging pharmaceutical hub for the Central Asian market

Within the framework of the Uzbek delegation's visit to Karachi, led by Ambassador Alisher Tukhtaev and the Khokim of the Navoi region Normat Tursunov, meetings were held at Pakistan's leading pharmaceutical companies, “The Searle Company Limited” and “Getz Pharma”.

During talks with Tahir Ahmed, CEO of “The Searle Company Limited”, it was emphasized that trade and economic ties between the two countries have intensified significantly in recent years, fostering an atmosphere of mutual trust and beneficial cooperation. The parties also noted that the pharmaceutical industry is a promising sector with high added value and expressed interest in further deepening collaboration in this field.

Particular attention was paid to the rapid expansion of the pharmaceutical markets in Uzbekistan and Central Asia as a whole. Specifically, Uzbekistan's pharmaceutical market is currently valued at approximately USD 3 billion. The broader Central Asian market, encompassing over 120 million people, represents a major consumer segment. With regional medicine imports exceeding USD 4 billion, there is significant potential for expanding local manufacturing and advancing import substitution.

During the negotiations, the Navoi region was presented as one of the most suitable locations for implementing joint projects. The region offers functional free economic zones, tax and customs incentives, a well-developed chemical industry, an international airport, and modern logistical infrastructure, all of which create a favourable environment for investors. Furthermore, the region’s strategic geographic location ensures rapid and efficient access to the markets of Central Asia and neighbouring countries.

The parties discussed issues concerning the localization of pharmaceutical production, the establishment of modern manufacturing facilities, technology transfer, and professional development for specialists.

An agreement was reached for a delegation of experts from “Searle” to visit the Navoi region to conduct on-site project evaluations and develop feasibility studies. During the meeting with Khalid Mahmood, Founder and CEO of “Getz Pharma”, the sides reviewed prospects for establishing modern facilities in the Navoi region for export-oriented pharmaceutical production, as well as the localization of high-demand and import-substituting medicines.

Special emphasis was placed on the implementation of advanced technologies and international standards, enhancing product quality and competitiveness, establishing modern laboratories, and strengthening quality control systems, as well as the training and professional development of personnel for the pharmaceutical industry. Furthermore, priority areas were discussed, including transforming the Navoi region into a regional pharmaceutical hub, expanding export geography, and optimizing logistics and supply chains.

Following the negotiations, the parties agreed to establish practical cooperation, launch joint projects, and develop a “road map” for future engagement.