Central Asia International Hardware Expo to Launch in Tashkent, Uzbekistan to Unlock Regional Market Potential

The Central Asia International Hardware Expo (CAIHE)will debut from 24–26 November 2026 at the Uzexpocentre in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. Organised by Koelnmesse Ltd. and Inter Dialog Ltd., CAIHE marks the expansion of Koelnmesse’s global hardware portfolio into Central Asia. As the region’s first dedicated international trade fair for the hardware and tools sector, it is set to become the premier marketplace, connecting global suppliers with local distributors, retailers, and industry professionals.

The expo arrives at a pivotal moment, as countries across Central Asia - including Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan - accelerate infrastructure development and industrial modernization. This surge of activity across the region’s 83.6 million people, with Uzbekistan's population projected to grow from 36.4 million to 52 million by 2050, is creating unprecedented demand in trade, construction, and the wider economy.

This momentum is directly reflected in the region's DIY & Hardware market, which is projected to reachUS$18.76 billion by 2029, with a3.41% CAGR(2025-2029). In Uzbekistan alone, the government reports thatover 750 major construction projectsare currently underway, with the sector recognized as “one of the most dynamic in the economy”. Major projects such as the construction of New Tashkent and key transport corridors are fuelling strong demand for quality hardware, tools, and building materials. To help international suppliers capitalise on these opportunities, CAIHE will feature around 200 exhibitors, creating the platform for the hardware and tools community to establish connections, explore opportunities, and secure deals in this high-growth market.

A Gateway to Regional Markets
“Central Asia stands at a remarkable crossroads. We arewitnessinga region transforming itself through infrastructure and innovation-and this is where the opportunities lie,”saidGerald Böse, CEO of KoelnmesseGroup.“Central Asia International Hardware Expo isabout building bridges,forgingpartnerships, and opening doors to possibilities. As organiser, we are proud to support this vision inTashkent. Together withour local partner,InterDialog, we see thisas an opportunity to connect our global network with the region’s dynamic growth.

CAIHE offers a unique competitive advantage. This trade fair is the first to provide a comprehensive, cross-industry platform in Central Asia. It presents the ideal opportunity for companies to enhance their brand visibility and seek new business opportunities in a rapidly evolving market.

“Having operated extensively in Central Asia for eleven years, we understand this market’s specific dynamics," said Yuliya Vasilieva, Director of Inter Dialog Ltd. “The collaboration with Koelnmesse as our organising partner combines our local expertise with global reach, creating the ideal platform for international suppliers. Here, exhibitors from the globe can form genuine partnerships with regional buyers, distributors, and project leaders. We’re focused on delivering meaningful business connections that drive growth in Central Asia's hardware industry.”

International Innovations Take Centre Stage to Meet Growing Demands
As a premier international platform, the event brings together a diverse range of manufacturers, technologies, and innovations. Its inaugural edition already features a robust international presence. A pavilion from China, organized in collaboration with the China Chamber of Commerce for Import & Export of Machinery and Electronic Products (CCCME), underscores the event's global scope. The expo is actively engaging with key industrial regions worldwide, positioning itself as the key gateway for international suppliers targeting Central Asia's emerging construction and industrial sectors.

Comprehensive B2B services and networking opportunities
CAIHE is projected to attract over 5,000 qualified trade visitors across key market segments - from hardware retailers and wholesalers to local distributors, industrial manufacturers, and professional craftsmen. To serve this concentrated gathering of industry professionals, the expo will deliver a comprehensive program of B2B activities, including curated matchmaking sessions, delegation tours, and networking events - all designed to maximise business outcomes for every participant.

Building Bridges Through Local Expertise
Leveraged by Inter Dialog’s extensive industry networks in Uzbekistan, including the Ministry of Investments, Industry and Trade, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan, and leading industry associations such as Uzbuildmaterials and Uzeltexsanoat, CAIHE is positioned to be the gateway to the fast-growing markets across the region. This extensive local engagement will enable CAIHE to create meaningful market access opportunities for international exhibitors, facilitating connections with decision-makers across Central Asia's growing hardware and construction sectors.