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	<title>Last news - Сentralasianlight.org</title>
	<link>https://centralasianlight.org/rss/</link>
	<description>Economy</description>
	<pubDate>Sat, 14 Mar 2026 05:54:13 +0600</pubDate>
	<copyright>centralasianlight.org</copyright>
	<ttl>60</ttl>
	<item>
		<title>Uzbekistan Approves Preferential Trade Agreement with Afghanistan</title>
		<description><![CDATA[The President of Uzbekistan approved the Preferential Trade Agreement with Afghanistan by decree, Gazeta.uz reports.

The Ministry of Investment, Industry, and Trade, as well as the Customs Committee under the Ministry of Economy and Finance of Uzbekistan, have been appointed responsible for implementing the international agreement.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been instructed to notify the Afghan side of Uzbekistan's completion of the domestic procedures required for the entry into force of the international agreement.

The Preferential Trade Agreement between Uzbekistan and Afghanistan, as well as the bilateral cooperation program in trade, economic, and industrial spheres for 2025-2026, were signed in Tashkent last June.

At the same time, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, at a meeting with Acting Minister of Industry and Trade of Afghanistan Nuriddin Azizi, outlined the priority of strengthening the legal framework for economic cooperation with Kabul.

During recent talks,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2026 16:35:14 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbekistan-approves-preferential-trade-agreement-with-afghanistan/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbekistan-approves-preferential-trade-agreement-with-afghanistan/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Kumtor Gold Company Reports Record $1.43 Billion Revenue Amid Rising Production Costs</title>
		<description><![CDATA[BISHKEK — Kumtor Gold Company has published its production and financial results for 2025. Despite increasingly challenging mining conditions and rising operational costs, the enterprise maintained high profitability thanks to favorable conditions on the global gold market, Akchabar.kg reports.


	
		
			
			Indicator
			
			
			Value
			
		
	
	
		
			
			Gold produced
			
			
			388,418 ounces (12,081 kg)
			
		
		
			
			All-in sustaining cost
			
			
			$1,884 per ounce
			
		
		
			
			Average selling price
			
			
			$3,711 per ounce
			
		
		
			
			Price range
			
			
			$2,882.70 – $4,612.95 per ounce
			
		
	


The company explained that increased costs are driven by two key factors:


	More complex mining operations: At the Kumtor mine,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2026 16:11:45 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kumtor-gold-company-reports-record-1.43-billion-revenue-amid-rising-production-costs/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kumtor-gold-company-reports-record-1.43-billion-revenue-amid-rising-production-costs/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>National Bank of Kyrgyzstan Raises 2026 GDP Growth Forecast to 10%</title>
		<description><![CDATA[The National Bank of Kyrgyzstan has upgraded its economic outlook for 2026: real GDP growth is now expected at around 10%, up from the previously projected 9%, according to the regulator's monetary policy report, Economist.kg reports.

The adjustment reflects sustained activity in the real sector over the past three years. For the first 11 months of 2025, the economy expanded by 10.2%.

Key growth drivers for 2026 include:


	Industry — commissioning of new capacities and production expansion;
	Trade — growth of e-commerce stimulating wholesale and retail segments;
	Construction — increased domestic capital investment;
	Services — maintaining a ~50% share of total GDP.


The main stimulus remains strong domestic demand, supported by rising real household incomes and a budget surplus.

The National Bank has set an inflation target of ~10% for 2026, assuming no new external shocks. Over the medium term, the regulator aims to bring inflation back to the 5–7% corridor.

To contain price pressures,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2026 18:08:19 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/national-bank-of-kyrgyzstan-raises-2026-gdp-growth-forecast-to-10/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/national-bank-of-kyrgyzstan-raises-2026-gdp-growth-forecast-to-10/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>National Bank of Kyrgyzstan Deploys $500 Million Since Start of 2026 to Stabilize National Currency</title>
		<description><![CDATA[The National Bank of Kyrgyzstan has once again entered the currency market with an intervention. On March 10, it sold $140 million, marking its fourth such operation since the beginning of the year, Akchbar.kg reports.

According to the regulator, of this amount:


	$36 million were sold with settlement on the transaction date (spot);
	$104 million were sold with settlement on a date different from the transaction date (forward).


All operations were conducted at the exchange rate of 87.45 soms per US dollar.

This marks the fourth currency sale by the National Bank in 2026. Previous interventions this year included:


	
		
			
			Date
			
			
			Amount Sold
			
		
	
	
		
			
			January 19
			
			
			$134.05 million
			
		
		
			
			February 6
			
			
			$109.95 million
			
		
		
			
			February 26
			
			
			$162.55 million
			
		
		
			
			March 10
			
			
			$140 million
			
		
	


For comparison, regulatory activity was significantly lower during the same period last year. In early 2025,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 2026 20:20:41 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/national-bank-of-kyrgyzstan-deploys-500-million-since-start-of-2026-to-stabilize-national-currency/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/national-bank-of-kyrgyzstan-deploys-500-million-since-start-of-2026-to-stabilize-national-currency/</guid>
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	<item>
		<title>Tajikistan&apos;s Trade Deficit Widens Despite Export Growth</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Tajikistan's foreign trade deficit in goods increased to $579 million in January of this year from $478 million in the same month in 2025, according to the Eurasian Development Bank's (EDB) weekly macroeconomic review, Asiaplus.tj reports.

"The increase in the deficit is explained by a 27.2% expansion in imports amid growing domestic demand in the economy," the review emphasizes.

It is noted that Tajikistan increased its purchases of vehicles by 52.7% year-on-year, machinery and equipment by 32.7% year-on-year, and food by 55.7% year-on-year.

"Exports increased by 53.1% year-on-year due to increased exports of precious and non-ferrous metals, textiles, and mineral products, including cement and ore concentrates," EDB analysts emphasize.

According to Tajikistan's statistics agency, the country's foreign trade turnover in January of this year amounted to $929 million, a 31.4% increase (or $221.9 million) compared to the same period last year. The trade balance was negative,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 20:04:42 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/tajikistans-trade-deficit-widens-despite-export-growth/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/tajikistans-trade-deficit-widens-despite-export-growth/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Kazakhstan Increased Sunflower Oil Supplies to China by 44%</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Kazakhstan secured second place among suppliers of sunflower oil to China in 2025, capturing a 36% market share. This was announced by Yadkar Ibragimov, Chairman of the National Association of Oilseed Processors (NAOP), speaking at the international conference Chinese Grains &amp; Oils Congress 2026 in Shanghai, Kazinform news agency reports.

According to the Association's data, exports of Kazakh oil and fat products to China showed significant growth in 2025:


	
		
			
			Indicator
			
			
			Value
			
			
			Growth
			
		
	
	
		
			
			Export volume
			
			
			440,000 tons
			
			
			+44%
			
		
		
			
			Revenue
			
			
			$312 million
			
			
			+37%
			
		
		
			
			Sunflower oil market share
			
			
			36%
			
			
			2nd place
			
		
	


These results reflect growing trust from Chinese partners in the quality of Kazakh products and the effectiveness of established trade connections.

A key factor behind the export growth was improved logistics efficiency. As Yadkar Ibragimov noted, since early 2024,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 10 Mar 2026 19:12:13 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstan-increased-sunflower-oil-supplies-to-china-by-44/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstan-increased-sunflower-oil-supplies-to-china-by-44/</guid>
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	<item>
		<title>Moody’s Upgrades Tajikistan’s Sovereign Rating to B2 with Stable Outlook</title>
		<description><![CDATA[International rating agency Moody’s Investors Service has upgraded Tajikistan’s long-term sovereign rating from B3 to B2 and assigned the country a stable outlook, according to information from the National Bank of Tajikistan (NBT), Asiaplus.tj reports.

Moody’s linked the decision to sustained economic growth, stronger fiscal and financial positions, and the preservation of positive macroeconomic indicators. The NBT said the stable outlook reflects expectations that the country will continue to pursue prudent fiscal policy and maintain macroeconomic stability.

The regulator also stressed that the upgrade could expand opportunities for attracting investment, reduce borrowing costs, and strengthen Tajikistan’s position in international financial markets.

A month earlier, Standard &amp; Poor’s also improved the outlook on Tajikistan’s sovereign rating from stable to positive at B level.

CentralasianLIGHT.org
March 6, 2026]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 06 Mar 2026 17:48:31 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/moodys-upgrades-tajikistans-sovereign-rating-to-b2-with-stable-outlook/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/moodys-upgrades-tajikistans-sovereign-rating-to-b2-with-stable-outlook/</guid>
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		<title>Kyrgyzstan Posts Unique Budget Surplus in EAEU for 2025</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Kyrgyzstan has demonstrated a unique result within the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU): according to data from the Eurasian Economic Commission's statistics department, it was the only country among the "EAEU five" to execute its 2025 state budget with a surplus exceeding $0.5 billion, while all other member states reported deficits, Economist.kg reports.

Revenues of Kyrgyzstan's republican budget reached $7.0 billion against expenditures of $6.5 billion. For comparison: Russia's deficit amounted to $67.4 billion, Kazakhstan's to $7.8 billion, and Armenia's to $1.1 billion; data for Belarus were not included in the report.

The surplus was driven by three key factors:


	Improved tax and customs administration, including digitalization (online cash registers, electronic invoices);
	High revenues from the Kumtor gold deposit and precious metals exports;
	Growth in foreign trade turnover, including re-exports and transit operations,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 06 Mar 2026 17:23:22 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstan-posts-unique-budget-surplus-in-eaeu-for-2025/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstan-posts-unique-budget-surplus-in-eaeu-for-2025/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Uzbekistan and China Explore Opportunities to Expand Economic Partnership</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Opportunities for expanding economic partnership between Uzbekistan and China were discussed at the Uzbek-Chinese Business Forum held in Tashkent. According to Ilzat Kasimov, Deputy Minister of Investments of Uzbekistan, trade between the two countries grew by 34% in 2025, reaching $17.8 billion. Plans are underway to reach the $20 billion mark in the near future. China remains Uzbekistan's leading trade partner, surpassing Russia, reports Daryo.uz.

Chinese investment flows are also increasing: from $15.8 billion in 2024 to an expected $21 billion in 2026. As noted by Sarvar Otanazarov, a representative of the Central Bank, steady GDP growth to $147 billion and declining inflation to 7.3% create favorable conditions for implementing joint projects totaling $58.8 billion.

Key areas of cooperation include energy, chemical industry, mechanical engineering, textiles, logistics, IT, and the "green" economy. Special attention was given to the launch of the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 05 Mar 2026 19:29:16 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbekistan-and-china-explore-opportunities-to-expand-economic-partnership/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbekistan-and-china-explore-opportunities-to-expand-economic-partnership/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Kazakhstan Harvests Record Crops in 2025</title>
		<description><![CDATA[In 2025, Kazakhstan's agro-industrial complex demonstrated steady growth: gross agricultural output increased by 5.9%, reaching 9.8 trillion tenge (approximately $19.6 billion). Growth was recorded in both crop production and livestock farming, announced Yerbol Taszhurekov, Vice Minister of Agriculture of Kazakhstan, as reported by Kazinform.

Farmers harvested 25.9 million tons of grain, including 19.3 million tons of wheat, and achieved a record oilseed harvest of 4.8 million tons. Diversification of sown areas enabled a reduction of wheat fields by 900,000 hectares, while simultaneously expanding legume cultivation by 275,000 hectares and oilseed crops by more than 1 million hectares.

The processing sector is developing actively: food production volume grew by 8.1% to 3.9 trillion tenge. Exports of processed products reached $3.6 billion (+35%), while total agro-industrial exports amounted to $7 billion.

By 2028,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 05 Mar 2026 18:51:45 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstan-harvests-record-crops-in-2025/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstan-harvests-record-crops-in-2025/</guid>
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	<item>
		<title>Kyrgyzstan Discusses Economic Outlook and Public Investment Management with IMF Delegation</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Kyrgyzstan's Minister of Finance Almaz Bakaev discussed the country's economic development prospects and the effectiveness of public investment management with a delegation from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), reports Akchabar.kg.

The talks took place against a backdrop of positive macroeconomic performance: preliminary data indicates that Kyrgyzstan's GDP reached $16.2 billion in 2025, posting 6.1% year-on-year growth. Inflation slowed to 4.8%, returning to the National Bank's target range, while gold and foreign exchange reserves increased to $3.1 billion.

However, structural challenges persist:


	Public debt stands at approximately 43% of GDP—within sustainable limits but requiring prudent management;
	A budget deficit of 3.2% of GDP is financed through external borrowing and grants;
	Remittances from labor migrants—exceeding $2.3 billion in 2025—continue to play a crucial role in supporting the balance of payments.


During the meeting,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Wed, 04 Mar 2026 18:54:59 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstans-finance-minister-discusses-economic-outlook-and-public-investment-management-with-imf-delegation/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstans-finance-minister-discusses-economic-outlook-and-public-investment-management-with-imf-delegation/</guid>
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		<title>Kazakhstan Ratifies WB Agreement: Concessional Funding for Infrastructure and Kambar-Ata-1 HPP</title>
		<description><![CDATA[The Mazhilis (lower house) of Kazakhstan's Parliament has ratified a framework agreement with the World Bank Group, granting the country access to concessional financing for strategic infrastructure projects. The document will enable Kazakhstan to attract loans backed by state guarantees under World Bank rules, which entails implementing international procurement standards and enhanced transparency, Akchabar.kg reports.

As explained by Deputy Prime Minister Serik Zhumangarin, the new agreement establishes a legal basis for financing major regional transport and energy hubs. Key projects set to receive support include:


	
		
			
			Project
			
			
			Funding Amount
			
		
	
	
		
			
			Zhezkazgan–Karaganda highway
			
			
			1.2 trillion tenge
			
		
		
			
			Beineu–Saksauly road
			
			
			$750 million
			
		
		
			
			Stake in Kambar-Ata HPP-]]></description>
		<pubDate>Wed, 04 Mar 2026 18:28:17 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstan-ratifies-world-bank-agreement-concessional-funding-for-infrastructure-and-kambar-ata-hpp/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstan-ratifies-world-bank-agreement-concessional-funding-for-infrastructure-and-kambar-ata-hpp/</guid>
	</item>
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		<title>Uzbekistan&apos;s Economy Projected to Grow 7–7.2% in Q1 2026, Says Research Center</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Uzbekistan's economy continues to show robust momentum: according to the Center for Economic Research and Reforms (CERR), GDP growth in the first quarter of 2026 is forecast at 7–7.2% year-on-year, Gazeta.uz reports.

In 2025, the country's GDP expanded by 7.7%, outpacing the 2024 figure of 6.7%. The accuracy of CERR's forecasting methods was reaffirmed, with deviations from actual results amounting to just 0.2 percentage points.

The Q1 2026 outlook is primarily supported by: business activity (+3.1 p.p.), financial and credit sector (+1.0 p.p.), banking operations (+0.9 p.p.), industrial production (+0.6 p.p.), and retail trade (+0.3 p.p.).

For the first time, AI analysis of 250 Google search indicators was used to validate the projection. January 2026 search trends revealed rising interest in key categories: "Internet &amp; Telecommunications" +19.3%, "Finance" +7.9%, and "Shopping" +5.2%. Based on this data, the machine-]]></description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 03 Mar 2026 18:36:20 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbekistans-economy-projected-to-grow-7-7.2-in-q1-2026-says-research-center/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbekistans-economy-projected-to-grow-7-7.2-in-q1-2026-says-research-center/</guid>
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	<item>
		<title>Uzbekistan Increased Its Foreign Trade to $5.8 Billion in January 2026</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Uzbekistan's foreign trade turnover reached $5.8 billion in January 2026, up 29.2%, according to the National Committee on Statistics.

Compared to January 2025, the indicator increased by $1.3 billion. Exports totaled $1.7 billion (+26.7%), while imports reached $4.1 billion (+30.3%).

Uzbekistan trades with more than 145 countries. Key partners include:


	China — 27.9% of total turnover;
	Russia — 18.7%;
	Kazakhstan — 7.1%;
	Turkey — 3.6%;
	Afghanistan — 2.4%.


Export structure ($1.7 billion):


	Industrial goods — 18.1%;
	Food products and live animals — 10%;
	Chemicals and related products — 10%;
	Miscellaneous manufactured articles — 7.1%.


Import structure ($4.1 billion):


	Machinery and transport equipment — 35.9%;
	Industrial goods — 13.9%;
	Chemicals and related products — 11.8%.


Overall, goods account for 56.2% of Uzbekistan's total foreign trade turnover.

CentralasianLIGHT.org

March 2, 2026 ]]></description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 02 Mar 2026 19:04:26 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbekistan-increased-its-foreign-trade-to-5.8-billion-in-january-2026/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbekistan-increased-its-foreign-trade-to-5.8-billion-in-january-2026/</guid>
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		<title>Uzbekistan&apos;s Oil and Gas Sector Enters New Transformation Phase</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Uzbekistan's oil and gas sector has entered a new stage of transformation. AO Uzbekneftegaz has announced interim results from the state program "100 Days of Action," achieving an additional economic effect of 1.1 trillion som (approximately $92 million) over 50 days through cost optimization, according to Mumin Ibodov, head of the company's information service, Uza.uz reports.

The program's key priority is directing funds toward geological exploration and production. Planned activities for 2026 include:


	6,500 sq. km of 3D seismic surveys (2.5 times more than in 2025);
	Drilling of 103 wells, including 58 exploration and appraisal wells;
	Permits secured for 20 investment blocks;
	Ongoing negotiations to procure 12 drilling rigs and new seismic equipment.


The company is implementing systematic measures to reduce expenses:


	Savings of 766 billion som achieved through direct negotiations with suppliers and recovery of accounts receivable;
	Divestment of non-]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 27 Feb 2026 20:15:20 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbekistans-oil-and-gas-sector-enters-new-transformation-phase/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbekistans-oil-and-gas-sector-enters-new-transformation-phase/</guid>
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		<title>Kazakhstan Exports 5 Billion Cubic Meters of Gas to China</title>
		<description><![CDATA[National company QazaqGaz contributed approximately 302.1 billion tenge (about $604 million) in tax payments to the state budget in 2025. This was announced by Alikbek Jamauov, Chairman of the Board of QazaqGaz JSC, during a meeting of the Collegium of the Ministry of Energy of Kazakhstan, Kazinform reports.

In 2025, the total volume of main gas pipeline transportation in Kazakhstan reached 88.5 billion cubic meters. Of this volume:


	20.5 billion cubic meters were supplied to the domestic market;
	5 billion cubic meters were exported to China.


To curb rising gas prices for households and businesses, the company allocated over 190.5 billion tenge to subsidize the domestic market.

"To reduce the expenses of Kazakh citizens on gas consumption, the company spent more than 190 billion tenge," emphasized Alikbek Jamauov.

Thus, QazaqGaz combines fulfillment of social obligations to domestic consumers with efficient export operations and fiscal discipline.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 27 Feb 2026 19:57:38 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstan-exports-5-billion-cubic-meters-of-gas-to-china/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstan-exports-5-billion-cubic-meters-of-gas-to-china/</guid>
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		<title>Kyrgyzstan Prioritizes Kambal-Ata-1 HPP and Hydro Modernization to Secure Energy Future</title>
		<description><![CDATA[The construction of the Kambal-Ata-1 hydropower plant and large-scale modernization of existing hydroelectric facilities were central topics at a Kyrgyz government meeting reviewing the country's socio-economic performance in 2025, Akchabar.kg reports.

Chaired by President Sadyr Japarov, the meeting summarized national development outcomes and outlined strategic priorities for the coming years, with energy security emerging as a key focus area.

The cornerstone strategic initiative is the construction of the Kambal-Ata-1 HPP, with a planned capacity of 1,860 megawatts. Once operational, it will become the largest energy facility in Kyrgyzstan's history. The project is expected to fully meet domestic electricity demand and enable exports, strengthening energy resilience across the wider region.

Alongside new construction, authorities are prioritizing upgrades to existing infrastructure.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 27 Feb 2026 19:48:53 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstan-prioritizes-kambal-ata-1-hpp-and-hydro-modernization-to-secure-energy-future/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstan-prioritizes-kambal-ata-1-hpp-and-hydro-modernization-to-secure-energy-future/</guid>
	</item>
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		<title>Uzbekistan&apos;s Public Debt Rises to Nearly $47 Billion, While Debt-to-GDP Ratio Declines</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Uzbekistan's state debt increased by $6.6 billion in 2025, reaching $46.85 billion (+16.5% compared to 2024), according to data from the Ministry of Economy and Finance. At the same time, the debt-to-GDP ratio declined from 35% to 31.9%, indicating that the economy grew faster than the volume of borrowings, Gazeta.uz reports.

Debt Structure

As of January 1, 2026:


	External public debt: $39.8 billion (27.1% of GDP), up $6.1 billion;
	Domestic debt: $7 billion (4.8% of GDP), up $0.55 billion.


For comparison: six years ago, in 2020, public debt stood at $17.8 billion. The most significant increase occurred in Q4 2025 — +$2.9 billion in just three months.

Allocation of Borrowings

The largest item remains budget support: the volume of such loans grew by $4.5 billion (to $19.8 billion), with their share in total debt rising from 45% to 50%.

Other key changes:


	Social sector (healthcare, education, ICT): +$1.06 billion, share increased from 7% to 9%;
	Transport: +$208 million (to $3.06 billion),]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 2026 19:07:20 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbekistans-public-debt-rises-to-nearly-47-billion-while-debt-to-gdp-ratio-declines/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbekistans-public-debt-rises-to-nearly-47-billion-while-debt-to-gdp-ratio-declines/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Uzbekistan&apos;s Foreign Trade Turnover Reaches $24.6 Billion in January–April 2025</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Uzbekistan's foreign trade turnover totaled $24.6 billion in January–April 2025, marking a 16.3% increase compared to the same period last year, Uzreport.uz reports.

Growth in exports combined with moderate import dynamics has significantly reduced the country's trade deficit, according to official statistics.

The key driver of positive performance was exports, which grew by 35.1% during the reporting period to reach $11.88 billion. Gold shipments made the largest contribution to this result, totaling $5.48 billion. Meanwhile, exports of traditional goods—including textiles, automobiles, steel, and petroleum products—declined.

Import volume over the four-month period amounted to $12.72 billion, increasing by just 2.9% year-on-year. Thanks to the faster growth of exports, Uzbekistan's trade deficit shrank more than fourfold: from $3.58 billion in January–April 2024 to $846.3 million in the same period of 2025.

China retained its position as Uzbekistan's largest trade partner,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Wed, 25 Feb 2026 17:04:46 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbekistans-foreign-trade-turnover-reaches-24.6-billion-in-january-april-2025/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbekistans-foreign-trade-turnover-reaches-24.6-billion-in-january-april-2025/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Kyrgyzstan&apos;s Industrial Output Hits Record $9.14 Billion in 2025, Nearly Quintupling Since 2011</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Kyrgyzstan's industrial production reached 799.7 billion soms ($9.14 billion) in 2025, the National Statistical Committee reported. This marks the highest figure in the country's history and represents nearly a five-fold increase compared to 2011, when the sector produced goods worth 164.4 billion soms ($1.88 billion), Akchabar.kg reports.

Kyrgyzstan's industrial sector has demonstrated consistent growth dynamics over the past 10 years.

According to the National Statistical Committee:


	2016: 209.8 billion soms ($2.40 billion)
	2019: 284 billion soms ($3.25 billion)
	2021: 370.5 billion soms ($4.23 billion)
	2022: 435.8 billion soms ($4.98 billion)
	2023: 495.3 billion soms ($5.66 billion)
	2024: 599.8 billion soms ($6.85 billion)


Thus, in just the past year alone, growth amounted to nearly 200 billion soms ($2.29 billion). For comparison: in 2012, amid economic instability, the figure dropped to 137.2 billion soms ($1.57 billion). Over the past decade,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Wed, 25 Feb 2026 16:18:26 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstans-industrial-output-hits-record-9.14-billion-in-2025-nearly-quintupling-since-2011/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstans-industrial-output-hits-record-9.14-billion-in-2025-nearly-quintupling-since-2011/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Private Sector Accounts for 80% of Goods Production in Tajikistan</title>
		<description><![CDATA[The private sector's contribution to Tajikistan's economy has reached record levels, accounting for 80% of goods produced and 70% of employment. This was stated by Farkhodshhoh Rahmonalizoda, Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) of Tajikistan, during a meeting with entrepreneurs in the Sughd region, Khovar.tj reports.

The event, supported by the government, focused on discussing the implementation of state policy on entrepreneurship development. As the CCI Chairman noted, thanks to President Emomali Rahmon's systematic support, a favorable investment climate has been created in the country, conditions for business growth have been created, and the private sector has become a key driver of the national economy.

This year, 396 new industrial enterprises and production facilities have been commissioned in Tajikistan, creating 2,422 new jobs. Industrial production reached 66.7 billion somoni (approximately $7 billion), with a real growth rate of 22.1%.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 24 Feb 2026 18:56:18 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/private-sector-accounts-for-80-of-goods-production-in-tajikistan/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/private-sector-accounts-for-80-of-goods-production-in-tajikistan/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Turkmenistan and BASF Discuss Expanding Cooperation in Oil and Gas Sector</title>
		<description><![CDATA[The heads of the state-owned concerns Türkmengaz and Türkmennebit held talks with V. Nikitin, head of business development at BASF Intertrade AG, the Swiss subsidiary of the German concern BASF Group, TDH reported.

During the meeting, the parties discussed key areas of bilateral cooperation and expressed interest in deepening it in the oil and gas sector. The participants reviewed the progress of previously reached agreements and outlined prospects for further collaboration.

BASF is already implementing a number of projects in Turkmenistan: in particular, the company's gas purification equipment was selected for the new gas chemical complex in Kiyanly. Furthermore, the company is ready to provide technical and consulting support.

Following the meeting, the parties exchanged proposals for expanding joint work and expressed confidence in their practical implementation in the near future.

CentralasianLIGHT.org

February 24, 2026]]></description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 24 Feb 2026 18:32:27 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/turkmenistan-and-basf-discuss-expanding-cooperation-in-oil-and-gas-sector/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/turkmenistan-and-basf-discuss-expanding-cooperation-in-oil-and-gas-sector/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Goldman Sachs Downgrades Kazakhstan&apos;s 2026 Oil Production Forecast</title>
		<description><![CDATA[International investment bank Goldman Sachs has lowered its 2026 oil supply forecast for Kazakhstan, Venezuela, Iran, and Iraq, Reuters reports. Analysts attributed this decision to lower-than-expected actual production figures in these countries.

At the same time, analysts have upgraded their price expectations. Goldman Sachs now forecasts an average Brent price in 2026 of $64 per barrel (previously $56), and WTI at $60 (previously $52). The forecast for the fourth quarter of 2026 has been raised by $6, to $60 for Brent and $56 for WTI. This increase is due to lower-than-expected oil inventories in OECD countries. The bank continues to assume no supply disruptions from Iran.

By the end of 2025, crude oil production in Kazakhstan increased by 5.5%, to 86.7 million tonnes. Oil and petroleum product production increased by 13.3% year-on-year (to 99.4 million tons).

As of May 2025, Tengizchevroil contributed over $1.7 billion in direct payments to the Kazakh budget in the first quarter of 2025. Overall,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 24 Feb 2026 18:07:03 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/goldman-sachs-downgrades-kazakhstans-2026-oil-production-forecast/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/goldman-sachs-downgrades-kazakhstans-2026-oil-production-forecast/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Kyrgyzstan&apos;s Gold and Foreign Exchange Reserves Surpass $10 Billion</title>
		<description><![CDATA[The National Bank of Kyrgyzstan's international reserves reached a historic high of $10.177 billion in January 2026, according to data from the National Bank of Kyrgyzstan, reports 24.kg.

Compared to $5.190 billion in January 2025, the reserves have almost doubled. The net increase over the 12 months was over 96%.

Reserve growth remained stable throughout 2025. While at the beginning of summer, in June, the asset volume was $6.508 billion, by October it had already approached $8 billion.

A sharp increase occurred in the final month—from December 2025 to January 2026, reserves increased by $1.574 billion, or 18.3%.

The National Bank of Kyrgyzstan's gold and foreign exchange reserves serve as a safety net for the country's economy, supporting the stability of the national currency and providing liquidity for external payments. The current asset level is the highest in the republic's history of independence.

CentralasianLIGHT.org

February 24, 2026]]></description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 24 Feb 2026 17:55:06 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstans-gold-and-foreign-exchange-reserves-surpass-10-billion/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstans-gold-and-foreign-exchange-reserves-surpass-10-billion/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Kazakhstan Sets Sights on Producing Over 200,000 Vehicles Annually</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Kazakhstan's automotive industry is preparing for a new stage of large-scale growth. According to forecasts from the Kazakhstan Automobile Union (KAU), vehicle production in the country will increase by 22% in 2026, surpassing the 200,000-unit mark for the first time, Kazinform reports.

KAU President Anar Makasheva, speaking at an industry forum in Astana, emphasized that the current growth is a logical continuation of the 2025 investment boom.

Key factors:


	Launch of a multi-brand plant in Almaty: The plant producing Chinese brands Chery, Changan, and Haval is reaching planned production levels.
	Kia plant in Kostanay: The new facility in the northern region of the country is ramping up assembly rates.
	Dynamics: While growth in 2025 was 18% (171,400 vehicles),]]></description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 23 Feb 2026 20:32:42 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uaes-wealthiest-family-to-fund-ala-too-resort-ski-base/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uaes-wealthiest-family-to-fund-ala-too-resort-ski-base/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>UAE’s Richest Family Set to Finance &quot;Ala-Too Resort&quot; Ski Base in Kyrgyzstan</title>
		<description><![CDATA[During an online meeting, the management of Ala-Too Resort OJSC and representatives of the Office of Sheikh Mansour discussed the investment prospects for the construction of an all-season ski resort cluster in Kyrgyzstan. Following the discussion, investors from the UAE expressed their intention to prepare and submit their investment proposals in the near future, Economist.kg reports.

Ala-Too Resort OJSC Chairman of the Board Zharkynbek Maksutov presented the Arab side with the concept of the project, which is being implemented under the personal supervision of President Sadyr Japarov. The presentation emphasized the favorable geographic location of the future complex and its potential for the development of international tourism.

The Ala-Too Resort cluster (formerly known as "Three Peaks") has been recognized as a project of national importance. For its implementation, the Kyrgyz government allocated land in the Issyk-]]></description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 23 Feb 2026 18:41:49 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uaes-richest-family-set-to-finance-ala-too-resort-ski-base-in-kyrgyzstan/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uaes-richest-family-set-to-finance-ala-too-resort-ski-base-in-kyrgyzstan/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Uzbekistan to Launch Artificial Rain Induction Project</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Uzbekistan has launched a major project to artificially increase precipitation and achieve total digitalization of its water infrastructure. According to President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s decree on the 2026 State Program, the republic is shifting toward the aggressive implementation of water-saving technologies, Gazeta.uz reports.

Starting March 1, development will begin on a pilot project for artificial rain induction, utilizing advanced expertise from China, France, and Saudi Arabia.


	Expected Impact: Precipitation levels are projected to increase by 10–20% above natural levels.
	Project Leads: The State Committee for Ecology, the Academy of Sciences of Uzbekistan, and the Tashkent Regional Administration.
	Background: Similar experiments were previously conducted in 2025 in the Navoi region in collaboration with Kazakhstani partners.


A cornerstone of the reform is the abandonment of open drainage networks to eliminate evaporation and filtration losses.


	Three-]]></description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 23 Feb 2026 18:24:40 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbekistan-to-launch-artificial-rain-induction-project/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbekistan-to-launch-artificial-rain-induction-project/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Kyrgyzstan Officially Announces 2025 National Debt at $8.92 Billion</title>
		<description><![CDATA[The Ministry of Finance of the Kyrgyz Republic has released preliminary data on the national debt as of December 31, 2025. Total liabilities have reached 779.8 billion soms (approximately $8.92 billion at the official exchange rate). According to Economist.kg, despite the nominal increase, debt sustainability indicators remain within safe limits.

External vs. Internal Debt

The debt structure is gradually shifting toward domestic borrowing, though external obligations still prevail:


	External Debt (59.9%): 467.4 billion soms ($5.34 billion).
	Internal Debt (40.1%): 312.4 billion soms ($3.57 billion).


Kyrgyzstan's external debt remains predominantly concessional, which helps alleviate the burden on the national budget.

The breakdown of external liabilities highlights the country's reliance on both development banks and bilateral partners:


	Multilateral Institutions (50% of external debt): The World Bank Group leads this category ($931.6 million),]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 20 Feb 2026 19:31:08 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstan-officially-announces-2025-national-debt-at-8.92-billion/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstan-officially-announces-2025-national-debt-at-8.92-billion/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Kazakhstan Secures Spot in Top 50 Global Economies</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Kazakhstan has officially entered the ranks of the world's 50 largest economies by Gross Domestic Product (GDP). This is confirmed by International Monetary Fund (IMF) data cited by The Economist, as reported by Kazinform.

According to IMF estimates, Kazakhstan’s nominal GDP is projected to reach approximately $320 billion in 2026. With this milestone, Kazakhstan remains the only Central Asian nation represented in the top 50 global economies.

In the published rankings, Kazakhstan is categorized as a mid-sized economy, standing alongside nations such as Peru, Portugal, and Finland.

The global economic landscape continues to be led by the following powerhouses:


	United States: ~$31.8 trillion
	China: ~$20.6 trillion
	Top Tier: Followed by Germany, India, Japan, and the United Kingdom.


By the end of 2026, the IMF forecasts the total volume of the global economy to reach $123.6 trillion.

A key highlight of the report is Kazakhstan’s rapid development pace.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:32:24 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/otvet-gemini-kazakhstan-secures-spot-in-top-50-global-economies/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/otvet-gemini-kazakhstan-secures-spot-in-top-50-global-economies/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Kazakhstan’s 2025 Economy: GDP Grows by 6.5% as Manufacturing Outpaces Mining</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Kazakhstan has finalized its operational economic results for 2025. According to data calculated using the production method, real GDP growth reached 6.5% compared to the previous year, Zakon.kz reports.

Drivers of Economic Growth

Economic expansion in 2025 was well-balanced. Real output of goods increased by 8.7%, the services sector grew by 5.2%, and taxes on products rose by 5.5%.

According to the Bureau of National Statistics, the total GDP for January–December amounted to 159.5 trillion tenge. In U.S. dollar terms (at the National Bank’s average exchange rate), the country’s economy is valued at $305.9 billion.

GDP Structure: Manufacturing Surpasses Mining

In the final economic structure, the share of services stood at 57.7%, the production of goods at 36.1%,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Wed, 18 Feb 2026 19:23:13 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstans-2025-economy-gdp-grows-by-6.5-as-manufacturing-outpaces-mining/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstans-2025-economy-gdp-grows-by-6.5-as-manufacturing-outpaces-mining/</guid>
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