Uzbekistan, Hong Kong to Expand Legal and Business Ties
Uzbek officials and a Hong Kong delegation led by Paul Lam discussed expanding trade, legal services, and international arbitration.
Uzbekistan and Hong Kong are set to broaden their legal and business connections, following discussions held in Tashkent on August 27, 2026. The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan reported that the meeting focused on increasing bilateral trade, economic, and investment cooperation, as well as fostering collaboration in legal services and international arbitration.
The discussions occurred at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan, where a Hong Kong delegation, headed by Secretary for Justice Paul Lam, was present. Attendees included representatives from Uzbekistan's Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Ministry of Justice, the Tashkent International Arbitration Centre (TIAC), and local law firms. The Hong Kong delegation comprised members from the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce, the World Federation of Hong Kong Business Associations, and various international legal and financial firms.
A key objective of the meeting was to forge direct business relationships between the two regions, enhance investment interactions, and explore practical avenues for collaboration in commercial legal support. International arbitration and dispute resolution mechanisms received particular attention. Diana Bayzakova, Director of the Tashkent International Arbitration Centre, noted TIAC's ongoing cooperation with the Hong Kong International Arbitration Centre (HKIAC) since 2023. This partnership has led to the development of cross-institutional arbitration rules, which participants acknowledged have gained international recognition and proven effective in resolving commercial disputes.
Delegates also addressed strengthening professional links between Hong Kong and Uzbek law firms, with an emphasis on providing legal support for investment projects, establishing joint ventures, and offering corporate services to entrepreneurs. Other topics on the agenda included potential collaboration in financial and banking services, investment management, financial technology, the digital economy, legal consulting, and international arbitration.
The meeting concluded with both Uzbek and Hong Kong representatives reiterating their dedication to expanding practical engagement, initiating new joint ventures, and reinforcing economic ties.