The e-commerce and e-logistics system of New Uzbekistan: new economic opportunities for landlocked countries

The digital revolution—an advanced phase of economic and technological development—is fundamentally reshaping human life across the globe. It brings vast opportunities while simultaneously intensifying global competition. In recent years, within the framework of comprehensive reforms aimed at the modernization of Uzbekistan’s national economy, significant steps have been taken to implement digital technologies across socio-economic sectors and public administration.

Notably, Presidential Decree No. PQ-3832, issued on July 3, 2018, laid a strong foundation for the development of Uzbekistan’s digital economy. The decree identified key priorities, including:

• Developing activities involving crypto-assets, including mining, smart contracts, consulting, issuance, exchange, storage, distribution, management, insurance, and crowdfunding technologies;
• Training highly skilled professionals with expertise in blockchain and ICT, while also attracting foreign experts;
• Advancing international cooperation and creating a legal framework for crypto-asset and blockchain activities;
• Fostering close collaboration between government agencies and entrepreneurs to promote innovative ideas, technologies, and solutions.

The implementation of the “E-Government” system is an integral part of this transformation, aimed at simplifying administrative processes, improving quality of life, and enhancing the investment and business environment.

Today, liberalizing the economy, attracting foreign investments, and expanding foreign trade are key strategic goals for Uzbekistan. However, as a landlocked country, geographical constraints present challenges in global trade and logistics. In this context, the June 23, 2025, meeting chaired by the President emphasized the urgency of finding comprehensive and innovative solutions, especially amidst growing regional geopolitical tensions.

Global Challenges and National Opportunities

Given the escalating geopolitical situation in the Middle East, global trade routes—and consequently Uzbekistan’s access to international markets—are under pressure. As noted by the President, such conditions may increase transport costs by up to 30%, undermining the competitiveness of exporters. Therefore, diversifying export routes, redirecting cargo to safer ports, and negotiating alternative corridors are of critical importance. Digital logistics tools play a crucial role here—not only optimizing costs but also facilitating faster, more effective market entry.

E-Logistics: A Revolution in Transport and Supply Chains

E-logistics refers to the use of digital technologies to manage, track, and optimize the movement of goods. This includes digital documentation, real-time location tracking, predictive analytics using Big Data, automated supply chain processes, route optimization, risk mitigation, and full transparency across the logistics chain.

For landlocked Uzbekistan, e-logistics is a vital mechanism to overcome geographic barriers. It:

1. Speeds up cross-border trade by streamlining customs and transit processes;
2. Reduces transport costs through efficient routing and lower bureaucracy;
3. Facilitates integration into global supply chains, enhancing international market access for Uzbek products.

A New Strategy in Motion

The June 2025 Presidential directives to support exporters, find new markets, and ensure production continuity are driving the expansion of e-logistics and opening new economic avenues. The government is:

• Facilitating access to e-logistics platforms for exporters;
• Providing financial and technical support, including subsidies for digital platforms and assistance in adopting e-documentation systems;
• Strengthening international cooperation to establish digital logistics corridors and achieve electronic data-sharing agreements with partner countries.

Within the Belt and Road Initiative, enhancing digital logistics systems along Central Asia–China–Europe corridors offers immense benefits for Uzbekistan.

Infrastructure modernization—including rail, road, and air—must go hand-in-hand with digital integration. Smart warehouses and automated sorting systems enhance efficiency, while qualified human capital is indispensable. This calls for intensified training of specialists in e-logistics through universities and vocational colleges.