Development of agricultural cooperation based on Japanese experience.

On August 21, Khait Khakimov and Abdulloh Shukurov outlined preliminary plans for introducing the experience of Japanese agricultural cooperation in Uzbekistan, implementing a pilot project, and organizing a study tour to Japan.
Following up on this initiative, the parties discussed conducting a feasibility study, a visit by Japanese experts to Uzbekistan, and organizing a study trip for Uzbek farmers and officials to Japan.
If positive results are achieved, a pilot cooperation project is planned to be implemented in the Tashkent region.

Abdulloh will soon begin his master’s studies at the International University of Japan under the Public Management and Policy Analysis (PMPP) program. He previously participated in a JICA training course on “Vegetable Production Technology for Improving the Activities of Small-Scale Farmers.”
During the meeting, we discussed opportunities to study Japan’s experience with agricultural cooperatives and explore how relevant elements could be adapted to Uzbekistan, particularly in horticulture and vegetable production. The discussion also covered agricultural extension services, the legal and organizational frameworks for cooperatives, and the broader ecosystem linking cooperatives with processors, wholesale markets and retail distribution.
We also agreed to develop contacts with Japanese cooperatives and relevant organizations, explore a pilot cooperative initiative in Uzbekistan, and consider organizing a study tour to Japan for Uzbek farmers and representatives of interested government institutions.
We wish Abdulloh every success in his studies and look forward to continuing our cooperation on this initiative during his time in Japan.

The event gathered 25 specialists representing the Ministry of Agriculture, research institutes, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, farms, and industry associations.
Main Objective and Challenge
The primary goal of the meeting was to implement the knowledge and experience gained through JICA programs in Japan into Uzbekistan's agricultural sector. Participants noted that upon returning from Japan, there is a lack of a permanent platform to discuss ideas and transform them into practical projects.
Future Cooperation Model
During the event, a 4-step working model was proposed:

1. Creation of the JICA Alumni platform – establishing regular communication and idea-sharing among graduates.
2. Transforming ideas into projects – formulating pilot project concepts based on promising initiatives.
3. JICA support – receiving expert assistance, as well as support in developing business plans and feasibility studies (FS) at the initial stage.
4. Attracting financing – engaging international and local investors for the prepared projects.

Key Areas Discussed

• Experience of Japanese agricultural cooperatives
• Agricultural consulting (extension services) and farmer support
• Development of livestock, horticulture, and vegetable production
• Efficiency of agricultural logistics and marketing

At the end of the meeting, the participants agreed to establish a JICA Alumni working platform in agriculture and continue pursuing practical initiatives.

• Coordinators: Khakimov Kh., Kurbonov F. (JICA Alumni Uzbekistan)

The event gathered over 90 specialists representing agriculture, education, energy, healthcare, tourism, and other key sectors.
Important Announcement: JICA Alumni Uzbekistan Platform
The highlight of the event was the official announcement of the establishment of the JICA Alumni Uzbekistan platform. This platform aims to unite professionals from various fields, facilitate the exchange of valuable experience, and foster strong professional cooperation in the future.

The organizers expressed their gratitude to all alumni who attended the event and encouraged them to remain active in future joint initiatives and projects.