Bishkek, 26 September 2025 – To strengthen the competitiveness of local companies in international markets and foster cross-border cooperation as a pathway to peaceful sustainable development and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in the Kyrgyz Republic, in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Kyrgyz Republic (CCI), conducted a targeted two-day training on export marketing.

Held on 25–26 September in Bishkek, the training brought together more than 30 representatives of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) from across the country. The training aimed at strengthening participants’ skills in areas such as international negotiations, drafting export contracts, preparing accompanying documentation, and promoting products in foreign markets. Special attention was given to Kyrgyzstan’s key export sectors – agricultural products of plant origin, honey, garments, tourism, and IT services. 

Avazbek Kerimbayev, Vice President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry stated: “For our entrepreneurs, these guides and hands-on training are invaluable. The knowledge and tools provided will help MSMEs represent their goods and services more effectively in international arenas, boosting their chances of securing long-term export contracts and expanding into new markets.”

The training was also timed to mark Kyrgyzstan’s Entrepreneurship Day, celebrated on 20 September, underscoring UNDP’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurship as a driver of innovation, inclusive growth, and sustainable development.

This training goes beyond technical support for business. By equipping Kyrgyzstan’s entrepreneurs with skills in international negotiations, export documentation, and marketing strategies, the initiative contributes to strengthening cross-border economic linkages, enhancing trust, and creating new opportunities for cooperation with Uzbekistan. Such people-to-people and business-to-business connections are vital for shared prosperity and lasting peace.

Alexandra Solovieva, UNDP Resident Representative, emphasized the dual impact of the initiative: “Strengthening the export capacities of Kyrgyzstan’s MSMEs is both an economic and peacebuilding investment. By helping entrepreneurs access international markets, we are supporting job creation, advancing sustainable value chains, and enhancing the country’s integration into global trade. At the same time, stronger cross-border business ties foster trust and cooperation, laying the foundations for stability and social cohesion between communities of Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan.”

Over two intensive days, participants engaged in interactive simulation sessions and practical exercises designed to build essential skills for accessing international markets. Trainers used real-life case studies and simulations to help entrepreneurs gain confidence in negotiation techniques, contract drafting, and cross-border communication. Participants also received ready-to-use templates and checklists – including model contracts, marketing plan formats, and exporter readiness tools – which can be directly applied in their businesses.

Feedback from participants indicated significant improvements in their understanding of export procedures and international negotiations. Many highlighted the practical tools – particularly the business proposal templates and marketing plan guidelines – as resources they will continue to use.  These skills and connections will contribute directly to deepening regional cooperation, creating jobs, and fostering inclusive growth that supports peace and stability.

Looking ahead, UNDP will continue to provide capacity-building, advisory services, and policy dialogue aimed at strengthening Kyrgyzstan’s export ecosystem. Future activities will focus on deepening MSMEs’ integration into international markets, fostering partnerships, and promoting sustainable and inclusive growth.

The initiative was organized within the framework of the UNDP Aid for Trade project (Phase V) funded by the Government of Finland, with support from the UNDP Strengthening Capacities of Institutions and Border Communities of Kyrgyzstan for Increased Cooperation with Uzbekistan project funded by the UN Peacebuilding Fund.