Tashkent: Malaysia and Uzbekistan have agreed to strengthen strategic cooperation in the agriculture and agri-food sectors, covering areas such as aquaculture, sustainable irrigation technology, and research and development, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (KPKM) stated in a recent announcement. This decision was reached during a bilateral meeting between Malaysia's Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu and his Uzbek counterpart, Ibrokhim Abdurakhmonov, held in Tashkent during a working visit.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the ministers discussed key topics such as food security and the implementation of smart technologies to enhance agricultural productivity in both nations. Agri-food trade between Malaysia and Uzbekistan amounted to RM338.48 million from January to December 2025, with Malaysia exporting products like coffee, cocoa, tea, spices, and processed food while importing high-value fruits like grapes.
During the meeting, Mohamad expressed Malaysia's readiness to share expertise and best practices in aquaculture, particularly in seafood production and quality control systems within the shrimp industry. Malaysia also highlighted its success with biofloc technology, which has improved aquaculture productivity in limited spaces and could aid Uzbekistan's fisheries sector.
Uzbekistan showed interest in Malaysian expertise, technology, and investment to strengthen its fisheries industry, enhance its domestic food supply, and support regional food security. Both countries agreed to focus on digital transformation in agriculture, emphasizing cooperation in artificial intelligence, digital agriculture, and sustainable water management.
Mohamad also welcomed discussions between the Malaysian Agricultural Research and Development Institute (MARDI) and Uzbekistan's Centre of Knowledge and Innovation in Agriculture (AKIS) to finalize a memorandum of understanding on agricultural research and development. Both sides encouraged business-to-business collaboration between agricultural companies and industry players, complementing existing government-to-government ties.
In addition, Mohamad extended an official invitation to Uzbekistan to participate in the Malaysian Agriculture, Horticulture and Agrotourism Exhibition (MAHA) 2026. He also officiated the launch of Meraque Group's operations in Uzbekistan and is scheduled to attend the Tashkent International Investment Forum 2026, to be opened by Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.