Agriculture is an important sector of Uzbekistan’s economy, accounting for about 25% of GDP. Meanwhile, the country is highly dependent on transboundary water resources, about 90% of which comes from upstream neighboring countries. Nevertheless, most of the water is used in agriculture, which accounts for more than 90% of the water used in the country as a total. Uzbekistan is ranked 25th out of 164 countries in the world for water stress, according World Resources Institute (WRI) report. The growing problem of water scarcity could seriously threaten its economic development. Therefore, the country needs to minimize its dependence on mass production agriculture and start transforming towards high value-added production.
The potential advantages of venturing into the fashion industry are immense. In 2022, the global fashion industry was valued at a staggering 1.7 trillion dollars. Projections indicate that by 2027, the market is poised to expand by 1.96%. This anticipated growth offers Uzbekistan promising opportunities to not only contribute significantly to the global fashion landscape but also to reshape its own economic future.
Recently, the government has been emphasizing on strengthening the position of domestic products in foreign markets, as indicated by a number of additional measures adopted in Uzbekistan to boost the country’s textile and garment export potential. Despite these efforts, it can be noted that the country has not been paying sufficient attention to laying the foundations for the emergence of domestic fashion brands. Currently, professional degree courses in design and fashion are limited and only a few educational institutions including Kimyo International University in Tashkent (KIUT), Tashkent Institute of Textile and Light Industry (TITLI), National Institute of Art and Design Named After K.Bekhzod (NIAD) and the prestigious among them Management Development Institute of Singapore in Tashkent (MDIS), offer such programs. Furthermore, these institutions are predominantly concentrated in the capital city, posing significant affordability challenges for aspiring designers from across the country.
In contrast to Uzbekistan, strategic partner Turkey, although sharing common features as a major cotton producer, is the fourth largest clothing producer globally. Turkey has market positioning itself as a powerful force in the fashion industry with a developed infrastructure supported by more than 25 educational institutions offering professional courses in fashion and design. What sets Turkey apart is not only the abundance of educational opportunities but also the global orientation embedded in its fashion education system. Many of these institutions have proactively engaged in establishing exchange and cooperation programs with internationally reputed fashion and design universities. This not only broadens educational opportunities but also enhances the exposure and global perspective of aspiring designers, contributing to the overall growth and recognition of the Turkish fashion industry on the world stage.
Adding to Turkey’s prowess, it’s noteworthy that there are currently more than 15 international clothing brands established in the country and they are successfully expanding their presence around the world. This demonstrates Turkey’s strength not only as a major clothing manufacturer, but also as one of the hubs of globally recognized fashion enterprises. As Uzbekistan continues its focus on economic development, a strategic emphasis on fostering a diverse and accessible education ecosystem in the fashion and design sector could further propel the nation’s creative industries onto the international scene.
For Uzbekistan, enhancing its position in the global textile and fashion industry necessitates a strong commitment to sustainability within its Textile and Clothing Industry (TCI). Recognized as one of the most polluting sectors worldwide, the TCI’s transformation towards eco-friendliness is essential, not merely optional. This move towards sustainability is in line with the changing preferences of today’s consumers, who are becoming increasingly conscious and open about the ecological footprint of their purchases. They require products that minimize harm to the environment, are produced using environmentally friendly methods and recycled materials. Accordingly, Uzbekistan should cooperate with international sustainable development organizations to learn and adapt best practices suitable for Uzbekistan’s textile sector. For instance, adopting the Bluesign® certification will not only help position Uzbekistan as a leader in sustainable textile production, but also increase the global appeal and competitiveness of its textile products.
Linking Fashion and Tourism: Uzbekistan’s Potential for Growth
Moreover, Turkey, along with France, Italy, and the UK, stands as one of the most visited countries globally. This underscores a compelling cross-sectoral relationship between the fashion and tourism sectors. A notable study has provided statistically significant evidence of these interconnected links, particularly highlighted in the context of the UK fashion and tourism industries. Drawing inspiration from this, it is plausible to posit that as the fashion industry in Uzbekistan thrives, it has the potential to attract international attention and significantly contribute to the growth of the country’s tourism industry. This symbiotic relationship between fashion and tourism can result in increased tourist revenue, serving as a platform to showcase Uzbekistan’s rich cultural heritage, and fostering cultural exchange.
Fashion as a Reflection of National Identity: The Role of Uzbek Designers
In contemporary world, country identity is vital for fostering national unity, promoting cultural heritage, enhancing global recognition, and contributing to economic competitiveness. Fashion today cannot be imagined without thinking about the identity of a country or region. When we see styles that are well-known around the world, like French or Italian fashion, they show different models with identities that people can recognize. The emergence of national designers dedicated to promoting Uzbek fashion can play a crucial role in shaping and reinforcing a country’s national identity.
Thus, Uzbekistan’s efforts to transition from its status as a major cotton producer to creating a unique identity in the fashion industry will bring a number of benefits. This strategic shift promises economic growth, environmental sustainability, and a reduced dependency on transboundary water resources, crucial in a region facing water scarcity. By leveraging its rich cultural heritage and innovative designs, Uzbekistan can enhance its global presence, attract tourism, and build a sustainable, value-added sector that transcends traditional textile manufacturing.