Ukraine and Uzbekistan have officially announced the transition to a liberalized regime for bilateral and transit freight transport, effectively establishing a 'transport visa-free' system. Minister for Restoration, Infrastructure and Transport Mykola Kalashnyk confirmed the signing of a protocol with the Minister of Transport of Uzbekistan, Ilkhom Makhkamov. This decision removes the need to obtain quota-based permits, which previously limited the volume and intensity of cross-border logistics.
Significance for Logistics and Business
Prior to this agreement, carriers were forced to negotiate the number of permits annually, creating administrative barriers and delaying cargo delivery. Amidst shifting global supply chains since 2022, finding alternative routes to Central Asian countries has become a priority for the Ukrainian government. Liberalization allows Ukrainian companies to respond to market demand more quickly, reducing logistics costs and transit times.
Economic Context and Statistics
Trade turnover between the countries shows steady growth. According to reports, in 2025, trade volume reached 315 million dollars, a 14% increase from the previous year. The ministry believes that the abolition of the permit system will catalyze business relations. Streamlining procedures makes the route through Uzbekistan more attractive for both local exports and transit operations as part of Ukraine's expanded eastern foreign policy vector.
Controversial Data
Despite official optimism, there are concerns in business circles regarding the capacity of alternative transit corridors through the Caucasus region and the Caspian Sea. While officials focus on the 'transport visa-free' regime as a tool to cut bureaucracy, independent analysts point out that the lack of permits does not address structural problems at logistical hubs, such as seaports and transshipment points, which remain critical bottlenecks.
International Network Integration
Uzbekistan has become the 39th country to sign such an agreement with Ukraine. This initiative continues the large-scale 'transport visa-free' strategy initiated with the European Union in 2022. It is worth noting that the agreement with the EU was extended in September 2025 until March 2027, setting the stage for long-term development of Ukraine's international transport corridors.
