France and Uzbekistan are not seemingly economic natural allies, yet growing integration between them is ever more important. The recent French state visit of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev was a major milestone in their economic relations.
Growing trade
Though France is Uzbekistan’s 16th largest trading partner, trade between them has boomed in recent years. Exports from France to Uzbekistan were worth €621 million in 2023, five times the 2019 value. France exports aircraft, medicines, cosmetics, and farm equipment to Uzbekistan, and there is still room for expansion.
Uranium: a strategic asset
Perhaps most significant among these areas of mutual interest is the uranium sector. About 90% of French imports from Uzbekistan consist of this strategic product for France’s nuclear energy sector. As Orano remains suspended in Niger, Uzbekistan is now becoming a top stand-in supplier, contributing to the energy security of France.
Shared goals
For Uzbekistan, energy transition expertise is being offered by France. Uzbekistan is being de-Russified and modernized from Russian gas dependence, and French corporations like EDF and TotalEnergies are supporting energy projects from solar to thermal power plants.
A bright future
This heightening cooperation is beneficial to both nations. France acquires access to vital resources and a useful regional partner, while Uzbekistan gains technology and investment for its economic reform. The future looks bright for this strategic union with more deals in the pipeline.
