Border trade between Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan is gaining new momentum. The leasing of retail space has begun in the free trade zone on the border between the two countries, and entrepreneurs can now officially reserve space for their businesses, according to the Orient news agency.

The 3.1-hectare zone is a full-fledged trade and service complex: 112 open galleries, 28 covered pavilions, 16 shops, as well as pharmacies, medical centres, a hotel, cafes and parking for 300 cars. A key advantage is the simplified visa-free regime, which allows free movement within the zone.

The ‘Shavat-Dashoguz’ project is considered a pilot project and should confirm the potential of a modern and profitable model of cross-border trade. The launch of the lease coincided with a 30% increase in bilateral trade and freight traffic between the countries, including deliveries through the port of Turkmenbashi.