Information on the “Kungrad Salt Free Zone” Special Industrial Zone

Pursuant to Resolution No. PQ-333 of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan dated November 3, 2025, “On measures aimed at developing salt processing in the Republic of Karakalpakstan,” investments of at least USD 50 million will be utilized in 2026 at the Barsakelmes salt deposit. In addition, a total of USD 200 million in investments will be attracted during 2026–2030.

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The initiative envisages creating favorable conditions for salt processing through the development of additional infrastructure at the deposit, as well as attracting major investors from global markets and developing new export markets.

A specialized industrial zone, “Kungrad Salt Free Zone,” focusing on salt processing, will be established within the territory of the Barsakelmes salt deposit in the Kungrad district.

Investment projects will be implemented on a 50-hectare plot of land in 2025–2026. In subsequent years, depending on demand, the territory of the industrial zone will be gradually expanded to up to 200 hectares.

Entrepreneurs who commence the implementation of investment projects within the industrial zone will be granted the status of a participant in the “Nukus” Free Economic Zone for a period of five years.

In addition, measures are planned to identify and develop existing salt reserves and promising salt deposits in Karakalpakstan. To this end, promising salt deposits will be identified, and information about them will be published on the open data portal.