LocationsFrom small-scale production to export markets: how two women entrepreneurs are growing a family business through green technologies
How Javharoy and Munisa are scaling their family business with greener production and exports in Namangan region
April 6, 2026
Nateco Impex specializes in the processing and export of high-quality dried fruits and agricultural products.
Photo: UNDP Uzbekistan
In Namangan region, the family business of Javharoy and Munisa Inamova began as a small-scale fruit drying operation. Today, their enterprise, Nateco Impex, has grown into a developing company that not only supplies products to international markets, but also introduces environmentally sustainable technologies, creates jobs, and supports local farmers.
Over time, as they gained experience and expanded production, the business moved beyond the local market. However, further growth required access to modern technologies, knowledge, equipment, and increased production capacity.
At this stage, support provided through the joint project of the Ministry of Investments, Industry and Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan and UNDP, “Aid for Trade in Central Asia,” funded by the Government of Finland, played a key role.
Scaling up: from manual work to modern production
In 2025, the enterprise received modern equipment, including an elevator, washing machines (including drum-type systems), and drying units. Prior to this, much of the processing was done manually, with workers handling washing, sorting, and preparation by hand – a time-consuming and labour-intensive process that limited production capacity. This upgrade became a key factor in transitioning to a new level of production.
Modern washing equipment provided to Nateco Impex under the UNDP “Aid for Trade” project.
Photo: UNDP Uzbekistan
While earlier processing required more time and were labour-intensive, today, the enterprise can process up to one ton of products per hour. Increased efficiency has not only boosted production volumes but also ensured consistent quality that meets export market requirements.
The introduction of a new washing and drying line enabled the company to establish a full production cycle from cleaning and cutting to packaging finished products. In addition, the enterprise has transitioned to year-round operations, significantly strengthening business sustainability.
Job creation and local economic development
The expansion of production has had a direct impact on employment. Today, the enterprise has created 26 jobs, a significant share of which are held by women.
For residents of nearby communities, including low-income households, this has created access to stable employment.
Moreover, the company generates a multiplier effect: Nateco Impex actively collaborates with farmers and households by purchasing agricultural products from them. In this way, support to one business contributes to the development of an entire value chain in the region.
Green technologies as a foundation for sustainable growth
One of the key areas of the company’s development has been the adoption of environmentally sustainable solutions.
Modern washing systems are equipped with water recirculation technology, allowing water to be reused multiple times. This significantly reduces water consumption and minimizes environmental impact.
In addition, solar panels installed at the enterprise enable annual savings of up to 18,000 kWh of electricity and contribute to the reduction of carbon emissions.
Thus, the company not only improves its economic efficiency but also integrates green economy principles into its operations an increasingly important factor for accessing international markets.
From local production to international markets
Dried fruit products by Nateco Impex, supplied to local and international markets.
Photo: UNDP Uzbekistan
With modernization, Nateco Impex has significantly expanded its product range. Today, the company produces and exports dried apricots, plums, figs, apples, greens, peanuts, as well as processed products including snacks and pastes.
The new washing line has also enabled the introduction of additional product categories, including the processing of root vegetables and new product lines.
The company has also expanded its export geography. Its products are now supplied to markets in Europe, Russia, China, and beyond. One of the notable achievements of the past year was the export of 16,000 jars of preserved grape leaves to Switzerland, marking entry into a new and promising market.
At the same time, the enterprise remains active in the domestic market, supplying large retail chains and food producers.
Improved performance and confidence in the future
The expansion of production and market access has positively impacted the company’s economic performance. Annual turnover has reached approximately USD 1 million, while employee salaries have increased by around 20%.
Increased productivity and the introduction of new technologies have strengthened operational efficiency and reinforced the company’s position as a reliable supplier of high-quality products.
The total value of the investment exceeded UZS 800 million, with a significant share contributed by the enterprise itself.
In addition to equipment provision, support included training, advisory services, assistance in business development, and facilitation of participation in an international food exhibition. This enabled the company not only to modernize production but also to strengthen its management capacities.
UNDP is currently implementing the fifth phase of the regional project "Aid for Trade in Central Asia," funded by the Government of Finland. The project aims to foster inclusive and sustainable growth in Central Asia by promoting "green" value chains and enhancing the competitiveness of the region’s economies. It contributes to the creation of more resilient, secure, and gender-sensitive economic structures by diversifying the economy and adapting to evolving market and consumer trends.
The project also contributes to SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).