Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev visited the “Eman Materials” company, located within the Chilanzar industrial zone in Tashkent.

In the context of global economic instability, the rational use of domestic resources and support for labor-intensive industries have become especially important. In Uzbekistan, sectors such as textiles, construction, and furniture manufacturing provide employment for approximately one million people.

The country’s furniture industry continues to show steady growth. Currently, 7,500 enterprises are active in this sector, including 920 newly established ones in the past year alone. During this period, furniture worth 6.7 trillion soums was produced, and exports reached $20 million. Following the example of the Khankin district in Khorezm region, furniture clusters have started to form in other regions as well. The government supports entrepreneurs across the full value chain — from importing raw materials and components to accessing foreign markets.

Around ten furniture enterprises currently operate in the Chilanzar industrial zone. Among them is “Eman Materials,” a company founded with US$10 million in private investment. The company produces 10,000 tons of furniture fittings and components annually, which are supplied to thousands of small and medium-sized enterprises across the country through cooperative arrangements. The company plans to begin exporting in the near future.

The enterprise currently employs 200 people. In addition, it operates a training center for specialists in the furniture industry, where experts from Italy and Türkiye take part in the educational process. “Eman Materials” also provides comprehensive services including custom furniture production, design, cutting, equipment repair, and more.

A demonstration hall has been opened on the premises, showcasing products from capital city brands. The space serves as a meeting point for manufacturers, service providers, and buyers, offering convenience to all parties involved.

The President toured the production process, spoke with workers, and emphasized the sector’s strong potential — particularly in terms of deepening localization and producing goods with higher added value.

The visit also included a presentation from the Chilanzar district’s reform coordination team. Proposals were made to further boost employment and reduce poverty. It was noted that the poverty rate in the district, which stood at over 7% at the beginning of the year, had decreased to 2.2% by mid-year. The targeted program aims to eliminate poverty and unemployment in the district entirely by year-end through measures such as identifying family resources, supporting micro-projects, encouraging business creation, and formalizing informal employment.

President Mirziyoyev reaffirmed his support for initiatives aimed at expanding employment. He stressed the importance of attracting investment, turning potential into tangible projects, and strengthening the role of small businesses. He instructed those responsible for economic development and investment to meet regularly with entrepreneurs, provide practical assistance in resolving issues, and help advance their proposals.