IFC is investing in Uzbekistan’s East Can Solutions to establish the country’s first greenfield aluminum can production plant in Tashkent. The facility will supply fully recyclable metal packaging to leading beverage producers, helping to strengthen domestic supply, meet rising market demand, and reduce reliance on imports. By producing locally, Uzbekistan aims to mitigate supply chain vulnerabilities, lower import costs, and improve delivery efficiency.
The plant is expected to create over 200 direct jobs and produce up to 1.1 billion aluminum cans annually. It will use highly energy-efficient equipment to reduce energy consumption and emissions, contributing to the country’s climate goals and promoting environmentally sustainable packaging solutions. Aluminum cans are fully recyclable, providing a greener alternative for the beverage sector.
Shukhrat Ergashiev, Founder of East Can Solutions, highlighted that IFC’s $18 million financing and advisory support will enable the adoption of international best practices in production and sustainability, while enhancing cost efficiency and supply reliability. Lukas Casey, IFC Manager for Manufacturing, Agribusiness, and Services in Central Asia and Türkiye, noted that the project will strengthen Uzbekistan’s manufacturing base, build local skills, and foster competitiveness in a growing market.
In addition to financing, IFC will assist East Can Solutions in aligning its environmental and social practices with IFC Performance Standards, global industry benchmarks, and pursue EDGE green building certification. This investment underscores IFC’s role in promoting sustainable private sector development in emerging markets while supporting job creation and supply chain resilience in Uzbekistan.
