Since the beginning of 2025, Uzbekistan has introduced a new system to promote employment. Agreements on cooperation in this area have been signed between 208 district and city hokims and bank executives. Bank branches have established special units to operate in mahallas, and "mahalla bankers" have been appointed, according to a statement from the Administration of the President of Uzbekistan.
As a result, 239,000 people were employed in January, and 480,000 in February. Since the start of the year, 14 trillion soums (more than $1.09 billion) in loans have been allocated to small and medium-sized businesses, including 2 trillion soums under entrepreneurial programs.
Unemployed individuals are being directed toward vocational training and income-generating work. The population is being informed about income opportunities, provided with ready-made business projects, and offered training sessions on their implementation.
The highest employment rates were recorded in Jizzakh, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Navoi regions, as well as within projects of the National Bank, Asaka Bank, Microcredit Bank, and the Business Development Bank. However, results in Syrdarya region and 24 districts and cities were deemed unsatisfactory. Consequently, disciplinary measures have been taken against 30 officials for low performance in fulfilling their duties.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
March 5, 2025