Kyrgyzstan has proposed the creation of a Unified Textile Cluster for member states of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), aiming to strengthen industrial cooperation, enhance value-added manufacturing, and improve the global competitiveness of the region’s textile and apparel sector.
The initiative was presented during the 4th Meeting of SCO Industry Ministers held in Cholpon-Ata, Kyrgyzstan. The proposal was introduced by Bakyt Sydykov, Deputy Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers and Minister of Economy and Commerce of Kyrgyzstan. He emphasized that the textile and light manufacturing industries remain key contributors to economic growth, employment generation, and export development across many SCO member countries.
According to Kyrgyzstan, the initiative seeks to move member countries beyond the traditional model of exporting raw materials and importing finished products. Instead, the proposed cluster would encourage deeper industrial integration and the development of complete value chains—from raw material sourcing to finished textile and apparel production under competitive regional brands.
The draft framework outlines several areas of cooperation. These include building stronger partnerships among manufacturers, research institutions, and logistics providers, as well as creating mechanisms to combine technological expertise and raw material resources across participating countries.
Another major objective is to improve market access by reducing administrative barriers, harmonizing certification procedures, and promoting mutual recognition of quality standards. Such measures are expected to facilitate smoother movement of textile products within SCO markets and strengthen regional trade.
The proposal also focuses on technological modernization and logistics development. By optimizing transportation networks and encouraging investment in advanced manufacturing technologies, the cluster aims to lower costs, improve efficiency, and enhance the competitiveness of textile enterprises across the region.
To address challenges related to counterfeit goods and supply chain transparency, the initiative calls for the implementation of digital traceability systems. These systems would help monitor product movement, protect domestic markets, and support legitimate manufacturers.
Kyrgyzstan has further proposed the establishment of a Joint Working Group to develop a registry of investment projects and identify opportunities for collaborative textile manufacturing ventures among SCO member states. The country has also suggested that the SCO’s Permanent Working Group on Industry continue refining the proposed agreement to ensure it meets the interests of all participating nations.
If implemented, the initiative could create a more integrated and competitive textile ecosystem across the SCO region, fostering investment, innovation, job creation, and sustainable economic growth while strengthening the position of member countries in global textile and apparel markets.