The Republic of Uzbekistan recorded a sharp increase in domestic trade volumes. From January to May 2026, the retail trade turnover in the country reached 210,243.1 billion soums. In real terms, the indicator increased by 20.7% compared to the same period last year, according to the official report from the Statistics Agency under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

As of June 1, 2026, 88,686 specialized retail enterprises were operating in the republic, of which 439 entities belong to the large business category, and 88,247 units represent small businesses and micro-firms. Small businesses dominate the sales structure, accounting for an 81.5% share, with a turnover reaching 143,386.8 billion soums at a growth rate of 18.0%. Large retail organizations generated a turnover of 38,880.6 billion soums, demonstrating a growth dynamic of 25.6%.

The highest dynamics of retail sales development were demonstrated by the following regions of the country:

1. Tashkent city — a 33.0% growth.

2. Republic of Karakalpakstan — a 32.1% growth.

3. Syrdarya region — a 27.2% growth.

The lowest rates of trade turnover increase were noted in the Kashkadarya (8.0%) and Tashkent (8.8%) regions.

Wholesale trade turnover in Uzbekistan for the first five months of 2026 amounted to 209,361.2 billion soums, an increase of 15.4% in real terms relative to last year's figures. The total number of wholesale companies reached 55,216 units by the beginning of June. Large organizations in the sector increased their turnover by 28.2% (to 68,203.2 billion soums), while small enterprises added 10.1% (to 141,158.0 billion soums). The share of small business in the wholesale segment was 67.4%.

Among the regions, the leaders in terms of wholesale trade growth rates are the Navoi and Fergana regions (19.7% each), as well as the Kashkadarya region (18.6%). Modest growth was recorded in the Namangan and Jizzakh regions—6.6% each.

In parallel, the public catering industry is developing in the country. From January to May 2026, the turnover of restaurants and cafes amounted to 94,441.1 billion soums, showing an 11.1% growth in real terms. There are 28,483 enterprises operating in this sector, with 75.5% of the total market turnover generated by small and micro-businesses.

For Chinese manufacturers the rapid expansion of Uzbekistan's domestic market opens up massive commercial prospects. The double-digit growth rates of retail (+20.7%) and wholesale (+15.4%) trade indicate a steady increase in the purchasing power of the population and the formation of a capacious consumer market. Given that over 81% of retail and 67% of wholesale trade is controlled by small and medium-sized businesses, Chinese FMCG exporters can effectively enter this market through an extensive network of local distributors.