Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan

From 17 to 21 August, representatives of Uzbekistan’s small and medium-sized businesses specializing in the production of freeze-dried fruits and dried prunes are on a working visit to Serbia. The visit is organized by the International Trade Centre (ITC) under the Trade Promotion East programme, with the support of the Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

The programme is aimed at strengthening the technological and export capabilities of domestic producers. Key areas of focus include freeze-drying technologies, prune production, post-harvest processing, quality management systems, packaging, and branding.

The programme began in Belgrade with a meeting at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, where participants were introduced to Serbia’s experience in developing export-oriented agricultural production and fostering cooperation between businesses, industry associations, and government institutions. Uzbek entrepreneurs are also visiting leading Serbian companies and research institutions, including Zafruit, FRIKOS, ELBI (LyoCake), Podgorina Fruct, Jovanović Voće, Processing TM, Agro Corp Duo, and the Fruit Research Institute in Čačak.

At production and research facilities, participants are studying modern fruit drying and processing technologies, quality control systems, packaging solutions, and approaches to organizing supplies to international markets. Expert sessions complement the practical programme with recommendations on food safety, innovation, and increasing the added value of products.

The knowledge and experience gained during the visit are directly linked to further commercial engagement. B2B meetings with importers and distributors are scheduled for 22 August in Zagreb and 24 August in Ljubljana. Uzbek companies will present their products, discuss the requirements of European buyers, and explore opportunities to enter new international markets.

Thus, the mission combines technological development with the direct search for new business partners and sales channels. It creates opportunities to enhance the competitiveness of Uzbekistan’s fruit and vegetable products, introduce modern production solutions, and strengthen practical economic cooperation between Uzbekistan and Serbia.