TASHKENT - During his speech at the 5th Tashkent International Investment Forum, Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev presented a comprehensive economic development strategy for the country, emphasizing increased investment, accelerated industrialization, and technological modernization, Uzbek media reported.
According to him, approximately $150 billion in foreign investment has been attracted to Uzbekistan's economy in recent years, more than $123 billion of which came in the past five years. Last year alone, investment volume amounted to $43 billion. The country's international currency reserves exceeded $70 billion, reflecting the sustainability of its macroeconomic policy.
Mirziyoyev noted that the previously projected GDP of $100 billion by 2026 has already been revised: the economy is expected to exceed $180 billion this year. Uzbekistan also improved its position in the Index of Economic Freedom, moving up 14 places and entering the category of countries with a moderately free economy.
One of the key decisions of the forum was the announcement of the creation of the Tashkent International Financial Center with a special tax and legal regime for 50 years. Investors will benefit from zero rates on key taxes, the application of English law, an independent regulator, and an international commercial court.
The President also announced large-scale financial initiatives, including the IPO of the National Investment Fund, the issuance of sovereign sukuk bonds worth at least $10 billion, and the privatization of state assets worth $6 billion.
Significant attention was paid to industrial and resource potential: the country's mineral reserves are estimated to be worth $3 trillion. Plans include expanding geological exploration, creating technology parks, and implementing major projects in the chemical, mechanical engineering, and pharmaceutical industries.
Strategic priorities include the development of green energy, increasing its share to 54%, the creation of an artificial intelligence zone in Karakalpakstan, and the development of data centers and logistics corridors, including the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan route and the Trans-Afghan Highway.
Large-scale infrastructure projects are also planned: the construction of a new Tashkent airport, the development of high-speed roads, the expansion of housing construction, and the formation of new urban agglomerations.
At the end of the forum, the creation of the Regional Alliance of Investment Councils of Central Asia and the Caucasus was announced, aimed at creating a unified investment space and strengthening coordination between the states of the region.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
June 17, 2026