<?xml version='1.0' encoding='utf-8' ?>
<rss version='2.0' xmlns:dc='http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/'>
<channel>
	<title>Last news - Сentralasianlight.org</title>
	<link>https://centralasianlight.org/rss/</link>
	<description>Economy</description>
	<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 19:30:28 +0600</pubDate>
	<copyright>centralasianlight.org</copyright>
	<ttl>60</ttl>
	<item>
		<title>Kazakhstan&apos;s Gold Reserves Fell by 10.5% in March</title>
		<description><![CDATA[ASTANA - Kazakhstan's monetary gold holdings fell by 10.5% in March compared to February, reaching $51.8 billion, according to data from the National Bank of Kazakhstan, Forbes.kz reports.

Amid declining gold reserves, the country's gross international reserves decreased by 9% to $66.8 billion, while net reserves fell by 9.4% to $64.7 billion.

Despite the March decline, the volume of monetary gold remains up 9.6% year-to-date, although the growth rate has slowed significantly.

Convertible currency assets decreased by 3.6% month-on-month and by 17.4% year-to-date, reaching $15 billion.

The currency assets of the National Fund of Kazakhstan also declined: by 4.9% month-on-month, to $62.4 billion. The fund's total assets decreased to 29.9 trillion tenge.

At the same time, domestic liquidity increased. Reserve funds increased by 3.4% to 14.7 trillion tenge, while bank deposits rose to 8.5 trillion tenge.

By the end of March,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 2026 17:36:17 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstans-gold-reserves-fell-by-10.5-in-march/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstans-gold-reserves-fell-by-10.5-in-march/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Kyrgyzstan to Engage Oppenheimer Europe to Access Global Capital Markets</title>
		<description><![CDATA[BISHKEK - Kyrgyz Prime Minister Adylbek Kasymaliev met with a representative of Oppenheimer Europe in Bishkek to discuss the country and national companies' access to international capital markets, Akchabar.kg reports.

One of the key topics was Eldik Bank's recent $500 million Eurobond placement. The parties noted that this is the first such placement for a Kyrgyz bank and an important signal for foreign investors.

Measures to enhance Kyrgyzstan's sovereign credit rating, including expanding cooperation with international rating agencies and financial institutions, were also discussed.

Following the talks, an agreement was signed under which Oppenheimer Europe will become the government's exclusive advisor on attracting investment and preparing for entry into global capital markets.

Furthermore, the parties agreed to hold investment forums and roadshows in leading global financial centers to promote Kyrgyz projects and enhance the country's investment attractiveness.

CentralasianLIGHT.org

April 30,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 2026 16:55:24 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstan-to-engage-oppenheimer-europe-to-access-global-capital-markets/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstan-to-engage-oppenheimer-europe-to-access-global-capital-markets/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Turkmenistan&apos;s GDP Reached $77.4 Billion by End of 2025</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Turkmenistan's gross domestic product (GDP) reached $77.4 billion by the end of 2025, with economic growth at 6.3%. This was announced by Turkmenistan's Minister of Finance and Economy, Mammetguly Astanagulov, at the Turkmen-Chinese Forum in Ashgabat, Turkmenportal.com reports.

"The economic growth rate is consistently high, reaching 6.3% by the end of 2025 and the first quarter of this year. GDP by the end of 2025 reached $77.4 billion," the minister said.

According to him, investment in the economy increased by 6% compared to 2024, reaching over $12.8 billion.

"The share of foreign investment exceeded 10% of the total investment volume," Astanagulov noted.

The minister emphasized that the highest priority areas for investment are the oil and gas industry, petrochemicals, energy, construction, and the agro-industrial complex.

CentralasianLIGHT.org

April 29, 2026]]></description>
		<pubDate>Wed, 29 Apr 2026 18:39:04 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/turkmenistans-gdp-reached-77.4-billion-by-end-of-2025/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/turkmenistans-gdp-reached-77.4-billion-by-end-of-2025/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Kyrgyzstan&apos;s Mining Industry Grew by 30% in Q1 2026</title>
		<description><![CDATA[BISHKEK - In Kyrgyzstan, production in the mining sector amounted to 21.3 billion soms ($243,6 mln) from January to March 2026. According to the National Statistical Committee of Kyrgyzstan, the physical volume index increased by 30.4% compared to the same period last year, 24.kg reports.

In March alone, enterprises in the sector produced goods worth over 6.6 billion soms ($75.5 million).

The highest growth was recorded in the other mineral extraction sector, where volumes increased 2.9-fold. Pebble, gravel, and crushed stone production reached almost 700,000 tons, while natural sand production increased by 84.8% to 296,000 tons.

The metal ore sector also showed strong growth, growing by 44.2%. Coal mining increased production by 1.8%. Brown coal production increased to 867,500 tons, while hard coal production decreased by 28.3%.

Amid overall industry growth, a decline was noted in the oil and gas sector. Crude oil production decreased by 12.2% to 59,100 tons,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Wed, 29 Apr 2026 17:53:18 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstans-mining-industry-grew-by-30-in-q1-2026/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstans-mining-industry-grew-by-30-in-q1-2026/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>In Kyrgyzstan, Share of Small and Medium-Sized Businesses in Economy Grown to 51% of GDP</title>
		<description><![CDATA[BISHKEK - The contribution of small and medium-sized businesses to the national economy in Kyrgyzstan has increased significantly over the past three years. This was announced by Cabinet Chairman Adylbek Kasymaliev at a meeting on entrepreneurship, Akchabar.kg reports.

According to him, the share of small and medium-sized businesses in the country's gross domestic product has increased from 40% to 51%. The government considers this figure evidence of sustainable economic growth and the growing role of entrepreneurship.

It was noted that the SME sector is becoming one of the key drivers of the economy, encompassing trade, services, manufacturing, and agricultural entrepreneurship.

The meeting focused on business development in the regions. The government intends to expand support for projects in rural areas and stimulate new entrepreneurial initiatives.

A draft state program for the development of small and medium-sized businesses until 2030 was also discussed.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 28 Apr 2026 18:36:04 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/in-kyrgyzstan-share-of-small-and-medium-sized-businesses-in-economy-grown-to-51-of-gdp/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/in-kyrgyzstan-share-of-small-and-medium-sized-businesses-in-economy-grown-to-51-of-gdp/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>New Anti-Corruption System Saved Uzbekistan $108 Million</title>
		<description><![CDATA[TASHKENT - A meeting of the Anti-Corruption Agency was held in Uzbekistan, attended by representatives of the presidential administration and heads of compliance departments of government agencies. The main topic was improving the effectiveness of internal anti-corruption controls, Daryo.uz reports.

Participants emphasized that one of the key priorities of state policy until 2030 is not combating the consequences of corruption, but rather its prevention.

According to the agency, the implementation of the compliance control system has enabled the recovery of 4.2 trillion soums in criminal cases, reduced the shadow economy by 8.5 trillion soums, and prevented excess budget expenditures of 1.3 trillion soums ($107.9 million).

At the same time, the work of a number of departments was criticized. Of the 50 organizations inspected, 23 failed to meet the minimum legal requirements for the establishment and functioning of compliance departments.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 27 Apr 2026 21:01:31 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/new-anti-corruption-system-saved-uzbekistan-108-million/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/new-anti-corruption-system-saved-uzbekistan-108-million/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Kazakhstan&apos;s GDP reached $306 billion by end of 2025, with business profits accounting for largest share</title>
		<description><![CDATA[ASTANA - Kazakhstan's gross domestic product, calculated using the income method, amounted to 159.6 trillion tenge (approximately $306 billion) by the end of 2025, according to data from the National Statistics Bureau of Kazakhstan, Forbes.kz reports.

The indicator was calculated using the income method, which reflects the structure of GDP through the distribution of primary income: wages, net taxes on production and imports, as well as profit and mixed income.

GDP structure by income:

Gross profit and mixed income accounted for the largest share of GDP at 62.3%. Wages accounted for 30.6%, while net taxes on production and imports accounted for another 7.1%.

Sectoral distribution of wages:

By industry, the largest share of wages was recorded in wholesale and retail trade, including automobile and motorcycle repairs, at 22.85%.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 23 Apr 2026 18:55:37 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstans-gdp-reached-306-billion-by-end-of-2025-with-business-profits-accounting-for-largest-share/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstans-gdp-reached-306-billion-by-end-of-2025-with-business-profits-accounting-for-largest-share/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Kyrgyzstan&apos;s Financial Sector Nearly Doubled its Capital in 2025</title>
		<description><![CDATA[BISHKEK - Kyrgyzstan's financial sector demonstrated significant growth in 2025: the total capital of organizations nearly doubled to 571.6 billion soms ($6.54 billion). This is according to data from the National Statistical Committee of the Kyrgyz Republic, Economist.kg reports.

According to the agency, 576 organizations operated in the sector, including the National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic, 22 commercial banks, 532 non-bank financial institutions, 19 insurance companies, and two investment funds. The client base grew by 43% year-on-year, reaching 25 million.

This growth was driven by the development of mobile banking, online lending, and insurance services.

Financial indicators also showed positive dynamics. Total sector revenue exceeded 253.2 billion soms, an increase of 27.4% compared to 2024. Expenses amounted to 147.9 billion soms, while net profit reached 105.1 billion soms, a 23% increase year-on-year.

The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic contributed the most to profit growth,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 21 Apr 2026 17:17:21 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstans-financial-sector-nearly-doubled-its-capital-in-2025/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstans-financial-sector-nearly-doubled-its-capital-in-2025/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Kyrgyzstan Reports Growth in Fixed Capital Investment</title>
		<description><![CDATA[BISHKEK - The National Investment Agency under the President of the Kyrgyz Republic continues its systematic work to implement measures aimed at increasing investment, boosting confidence among international and domestic investors, improving the investment climate, and creating a sustainable investment regulatory framework.

According to the National Statistical Committee of Kyrgyzstan, the country recorded steady growth in fixed capital investment in the first quarter of 2026, 24.kg reports.

Total investment from January to March of this year amounted to 77 billion 319 million soms (US$884.4 million), a 25.5% increase compared to the same period last year.

Domestic investment increased by 1.2 times, while foreign capital inflows demonstrated a more dynamic growth of 1.5 times.

The main investments are directed toward the construction of facilities in the mining, manufacturing, transportation and logistics sectors,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 20 Apr 2026 20:45:29 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstan-kreports-growth-in-fixed-capital-investment/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstan-kreports-growth-in-fixed-capital-investment/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Remittances to Kyrgyzstan Reached $3.5 Billion in 2025</title>
		<description><![CDATA[BISHKEK - The total gross inflow of remittances to Kyrgyzstan by the end of 2025 amounted to $3.5 billion, a 16.8% increase compared to the previous year, according to Sanjar Esenov, Chief Specialist of the Balance of Payments and External Debt Department of the National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic, Vesti.kg reports.

According to him, the increase in remittances reflects the recovery of economic activity among migrant workers and the stable demand for labor abroad. Remittances traditionally remain one of the key sources of foreign currency inflow into the country and play a significant role in supporting domestic consumption and the balance of payments.

Russia remains the main source of income, accounting for over 90% of all remittances. A significantly smaller share, approximately 3.1%, comes from the United States. This structure demonstrates Kyrgyzstan's high dependence on the economic situation in donor countries, particularly the Russian labor market.

At the same time,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 17 Apr 2026 18:46:12 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/remittances-to-kyrgyzstan-reached-3.5-billion-in-2025/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/remittances-to-kyrgyzstan-reached-3.5-billion-in-2025/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Investments Attracted to Kazakhstan Exceeded $21.5 billion</title>
		<description><![CDATA[ASTANA - Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev received Renat Bekturov, Governor of the Astana International Financial Center (AIFC), who presented the Center's key performance results for 2025 and the first quarter of 2026, Zakon.kz reports.

The volume of investments attracted through the AIFC platform since its inception has reached $21.5 billion, including $7.2 billion since the beginning of 2025. Total assets under management amounted to $5.4 billion.

Over the course of its operations, the Center's participants have transferred 284.3 billion tenge in taxes to the budget, including 135.9 billion tenge for 2025 alone. The increase in revenues is driven by an increase in the number of residents: over 1,800 new companies were registered over the past year, bringing the total number of participants to over 5,400.

$12.4 billion in debt and equity capital has been raised through the AIX, with total trading volume for 2023–2025 reaching $4 billion.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Wed, 15 Apr 2026 19:03:45 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/investments/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/investments/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Kyrgyzstan&apos;s GDP Grew Amid an Industrial Boom, Despite a Decline in Exports</title>
		<description><![CDATA[BISHKEK - Kyrgyzstan's gross domestic product grew by 10.1% in January-March 2026, reaching 428.6 billion soms ($4.9 billion), thanks to a sharp increase in industrial production despite a decline in foreign trade at the beginning of the year, Economist.kg reports.

The chemical industry demonstrated the most significant growth, increasing 3.1-fold. Printing, paper, and wood products increased significantly (by 1.7 times), as did pharmaceutical production (by 1.6 times).

Other industrial dynamics:


	Transportation vehicles: +49.5%
	Construction materials: +39.7%
	Mining: +30.4%
	Food and tobacco: +17.9%
	Petroleum products: +14.6%
	Metallurgy: +10.5%


Other sectors also supported economic growth: construction grew by 29.6%, trade by 12.1%, and agriculture by 2.8%.

However, despite domestic growth, foreign trade indicators are declining. In January–February, total foreign and mutual trade in goods amounted to $2.1 billion,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Wed, 15 Apr 2026 18:01:22 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstans-gdp-grew-amid-an-industrial-boom-despite-a-decline-in-exports/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstans-gdp-grew-amid-an-industrial-boom-despite-a-decline-in-exports/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>IMF Urged Uzbekistan to Limit Public Spending Growth in 2026</title>
		<description><![CDATA[The International Monetary Fund mission recommended that Uzbekistan curb public spending growth in 2026 to avoid exacerbating inflationary pressures. This was stated in the final statement following the consultations, Gazeta.uz reports.

The Fund positively assessed the reduction of the budget deficit to 2.1% in 2025, but warned of the risk of its widening with increased spending. The IMF noted that in the event of a possible revenue overshoot, including due to high gold prices, additional funds should not be allocated to expanding budget spending.

The organization also recommended abandoning broad subsidies and focusing on targeted support for vulnerable groups.

Priorities include improving spending efficiency, including public procurement reform, reducing support for state-owned enterprises, and streamlining budget programs.

Furthermore, the IMF proposed introducing a new fiscal benchmark starting in 2027—a deficit indicator excluding revenues from natural resources.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2026 18:26:02 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/imf-urged-uzbekistan-to-limit-public-spending-growth-in-2026/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/imf-urged-uzbekistan-to-limit-public-spending-growth-in-2026/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Oil and Gas Production in Kazakhstan Fell by Almost 20%</title>
		<description><![CDATA[ASTANA - Oil and gas production in Kazakhstan in the first quarter of 2026 decreased by almost 20% compared to the same period last year. This was announced by Kazakh Energy Minister Yerlan Akkenzhenov at a government meeting, Kazinform reports.

According to him, oil and gas condensate production amounted to 19.7 million tons (80.2% of 2025 levels), while exports totaled 15.3 million tons (78.5%). Gas production reached 13.6 billion cubic meters (84.9%), and marketable gas production reached 6.1 billion cubic meters (83.6%). Domestic gas consumption increased to 8.8 billion cubic meters (+8.6%), reflecting growing demand from industry and the population. Oil product production remained stable at 3.67 million tons.

The department attributes the decline in production figures to scheduled maintenance work at major fields, including Karachaganak, where a project to install an additional compressor to maintain production is underway. External factors,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2026 18:09:14 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/oil-and-gas-production-in-kazakhstan-fell-by-almost-20/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/oil-and-gas-production-in-kazakhstan-fell-by-almost-20/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>$40 Mln Energy Project for Kyrgyzstan Launched in Washington</title>
		<description><![CDATA[A major energy project of strategic importance for Kyrgyzstan has been launched in Washington, D.C., the US capital. The initiative is being implemented with the support of the World Bank and the International Development Association as part of the REMIT program, which aims to modernize the energy sector and integrate the country into the Central Asian regional electricity market, Akchabar.kg reports.

The program envisions the creation of an open electricity market between Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan. Plans include the introduction of modern trading mechanisms, including a day-ahead market model, digitalization of energy systems, and the expansion of renewable energy sources.

In the first phase, Kyrgyzstan will receive $40 million in funding. The funds will be used to modernize the 220 kV Torobaev and Kristall substations, as well as the construction of the Kristall-Yulduz transmission line to the border with Uzbekistan. The funding will also cover feasibility studies, design,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 14 Apr 2026 17:45:09 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/40-mln-energy-project-for-kyrgyzstan-launched-in-washington/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/40-mln-energy-project-for-kyrgyzstan-launched-in-washington/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Kazakhstan&apos;s External Debt Reaches $182 Billion</title>
		<description><![CDATA[As of January 1, 2026, Kazakhstan's external debt amounted to $181.8 billion, an increase of $17.2 billion over 2025, according to statistics from the National Bank of Kazakhstan. Moreover, the increase in the last quarter was $10.4 billion, reports Kursiv.kz.

The increase in external debt was due to balance of payments transactions of $12.8 billion, as well as exchange rate, value, and other changes of $4.3 billion, according to the National Bank of Kazakhstan.

The structure of external debt is as follows:


	Government external debt accounts for $18.6 billion (+$2.4 billion over the quarter);
	state-controlled banks and organizations – $25.2 billion (+$4.4 billion over the quarter);
	private sector – $138 billion (+$3.6 billion);
	state-guaranteed debt – $3.3 billion (+$100 million).


The bulk of external debt—88.1%—is long-term liabilities (over one year).]]></description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 13 Apr 2026 19:18:11 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstans-external-debt-reaches-182-billion/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstans-external-debt-reaches-182-billion/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>IMF Warned Kyrgyzstan of Risk of Economic Overheating</title>
		<description><![CDATA[BISHKEK - Kyrgyzstan's economy is demonstrating robust growth but faces risks of overheating due to high inflation and active lending, according to the final statement of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission that worked in the country from March 18 to April 1, 2026, 24.kg reports.

Since 2022, economic growth has been driven by expanding trade, an influx of remittances, and a construction boom. This has increased household incomes but pushed inflation above the National Bank's target range (5-7%). IMF experts expect prices to remain high until 2027 and to begin to decline only if macroeconomic policy is adjusted.

Rapid lending growth, significant wage increases, and increased liquidity indicate signs of economic overheating. Growth is projected to slow as indicators normalize, although it will remain above potential due to large infrastructure projects.

In 2026, the budget will shift into deficit after surpluses in 2023–2025 due to rising public sector wages and increased capital expenditures.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 10 Apr 2026 18:12:34 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/imf-warned-kyrgyzstan-of-risk-of-economic-overheating/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/imf-warned-kyrgyzstan-of-risk-of-economic-overheating/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Volume of Cashless Payments in Turkmenistan Exceeded $1.76 Billion</title>
		<description><![CDATA[The total volume of non-cash payments in Turkmenistan amounted to over 3.25 billion ($930 mln) manat for the period from January 1 to March 1, 2026, according to the Banking Bulletin, published by the Central Bank of Turkmenistan, reports Turkmenportal.com.

According to the regulator's statistics, the total volume of non-cash transactions, including payments through payment terminals and e-commerce, reached 3,252,874,312 manat.

Payments through POS terminals and other payment devices accounted for the majority of non-cash transactions, amounting to 2.7 billion manat (83% of the total). E-commerce transactions accounted for 551.6 million manat (17%).

Daikhanbank led the way in non-cash transactions through terminals, with a volume of 928.2 million manat. Turkmenistan Bank (436.7 million manat) and Turkmenbashi Bank (384.4 million manat) also demonstrated strong results.

Halkbank leads the e-commerce segment with a transaction volume of 468.5 million manat.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 09 Apr 2026 20:07:35 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/volume-of-cashless-payments-in-turkmenistan-exceeded-1.76-billion/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/volume-of-cashless-payments-in-turkmenistan-exceeded-1.76-billion/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Kazakhstan&apos;s Budget Grew by 16.9% While Inflation Slowed</title>
		<description><![CDATA[ASTANA - In the first quarter of 2026, Kazakhstan recorded a strengthening of budget revenues, while inflation slowed. According to the Ministry of National Economy, the state treasury (excluding transfers) increased by 6,444.9 billion tenge ($13.5 billion), compared to a planned 6,176.2 billion ($12.9 billion). Execution was 104.4%, 16.9% higher than the same period in 2025, Forbes.kz reports.

The national budget was executed by 101.8%, with 4,159.4 billion tenge received. The main increase was driven by tax revenues, which increased by 31.5% to 4,077.6 billion tenge, thanks to favorable export prices and improved administration. Revenues from the mineral extraction tax increased by 35.7%, VAT on imports by 24.2%, and corporate income tax by 16.9%.

The number of official taxpayers is growing: 392,000 self-employed individuals and 10,000 new VAT payers have registered since the beginning of the year. Local budgets also showed growth of 3.1%, collecting 2,285.5 billion tenge.

Amid stable revenues,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Wed, 08 Apr 2026 22:59:10 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstans-budget-grew-by-16.9-while-inflation-slowed/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstans-budget-grew-by-16.9-while-inflation-slowed/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Uzbekistan&apos;s Gold and Foreign Exchange Reserves Fell by $8.1 Billion</title>
		<description><![CDATA[TASHKENT - Uzbekistan's gold and foreign exchange reserves totaled $68.99 billion as of April 1, 2026, declining for the first time since July 2025, according to data from the Central Bank of Uzbekistan, Gazeta.uz reports.

In March, international reserves decreased by $8.1 billion (-10.5%), virtually eliminating the increase since the beginning of the year. The key factor was the decline in global gold prices: from $5,174.1 to $4,553.95 per ounce (-12%), which reduced the reserve estimate by $8.3 billion.

Meanwhile, the physical volume of gold in reserves has increased for the sixth consecutive month. In March, the Central Bank acquired an additional 280,000 troy ounces (8.7 tonnes), bringing its total reserves to a record 13.36 million ounces (415.5 tonnes). However, due to falling prices, the value of gold reserves decreased by $6.82 billion to $60.85 billion. Gold accounts for 88.2% of the country's total reserves.

The foreign exchange component of reserves decreased by $1.27 billion to $7.57 billion,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Wed, 08 Apr 2026 22:46:15 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbekistans-gold-and-foreign-exchange-reserves-ffell-by-8.1-billion/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbekistans-gold-and-foreign-exchange-reserves-ffell-by-8.1-billion/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Kyrgyzstan&apos;s Budget Posted a Surplus of Almost $881 Million</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Kyrgyzstan's state budget showed a significant "margin of safety" at the beginning of 2026. In January and February, the country's revenues significantly exceeded expenditures, resulting in a surplus of almost 73 billion soms (almost $881 million), reports Akchabar.kg.

Compared to last year, the difference is significant. For the same two months of 2025, the surplus was approximately 49 billion soms. This means it has now grown by almost 24 billion soms—approximately 1.5 times.

This is due to increased revenues. The budget received 159 billion soms in the first two months of this year, compared to 119 billion soms the year before. The main contribution is taxes.

At the same time, the state is spending significantly less than it earns. Expenditures for the same period amounted to approximately 64 billion soms, with another 22 billion soms spent on the acquisition of material assets.

CentralasianLIGHT.org

April 8, 2026]]></description>
		<pubDate>Wed, 08 Apr 2026 22:33:12 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstans-budget-posted-a-surplus-of-almost-881-million/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstans-budget-posted-a-surplus-of-almost-881-million/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Demand for Gold Bars in Uzbekistan Grown Eightfold in 2 Years</title>
		<description><![CDATA[TASHKENT - The market for gold bars in Uzbekistan has demonstrated steady growth since 2020, but the main surge in demand is expected in 2024–2025, according to a survey by the Central Bank of Uzbekistan, Gazeta.uz reports.

According to the regulator, from November 2020 to the end of 2025, banks sold 65,150 bars, weighing a total of 1.2 tons, to the public. Moreover, the sales infrastructure expanded significantly: the number of participating banks increased from 12 to 19, and the number of service outlets increased from 34 to 170.

More than 60% of all sales were 5- and 10-gram bars, indicating a preference among the public for affordable investment instruments. A similar structure is observed in gold buybacks: of the 11,828 bars (201 kg) purchased by banks from individuals, approximately 65% ​​were also small denominations. Overall, 83.4% of the precious metal remains in the hands of buyers.

A key increase in demand has been recorded over the past two years.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 07 Apr 2026 20:17:55 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/demand-for-gold-bars-in-uzbekistan-grown-eightfold-in-2-years/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/demand-for-gold-bars-in-uzbekistan-grown-eightfold-in-2-years/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Kazakhstan Receives Least Amount of Migrant Remittances</title>
		<description><![CDATA[The share of remittances in Kazakhstan's GDP is approximately 0.08%—one of the lowest in the world. Compared to this, countries of the former Soviet Union rely on them tenfold more heavily. Zakon.kz investigated the reasons behind this gap.

A Hundredfold Difference
According to the World Bank and Trading Economics, migrant remittances to Kazakhstan account for approximately 0.08% of GDP (1% in 2024).

For comparison:


	Tajikistan – 47.89% of GDP
	Kyrgyzstan – 17.74%
	Uzbekistan – 14.42%
	Georgia – 11.87%
	Ukraine – 6.29%
	Armenia – 4.92%
	Azerbaijan – 1.82%
	Belarus – 1.81%
	Russia – 0.09%.


The global average is approximately 0.82%.

This indicator reflects the share of money that citizens working abroad send home.

Why Kazakhstan ranks at the bottom of the rankings
The low share is explained by the structure of the economy. Kazakhstan is not a country of mass labor emigration. On the contrary, it attracts labor from neighboring countries. People come to the country to work,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 06 Apr 2026 23:42:15 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstan-receives-least-amount-of-migrant-remittances/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstan-receives-least-amount-of-migrant-remittances/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Kyrgyzstan&apos;s Tax Revenues have Plateaued After a Surge</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Tax revenues continue to grow in Central Asian countries, but the dynamics vary significantly: some economies are accelerating, while others are entering a stabilization phase.

According to Schneider Group, growth in Kyrgyzstan has virtually stalled after a sharp increase in 2023, Akchabar.kg reports.

While tax revenues totaled $1.8 billion in 2022, they nearly doubled in 2023, reaching $3.4 billion. In 2024, they reached $3.6 billion, but declined slightly to $3.5 billion in 2025, indicating a plateau.

The lower tax revenues in Kyrgyzstan compared to its neighbors are largely explained by a more lenient tax burden and the structure of the economy.

Uzbekistan is showing the highest growth rates. Over three years, revenues have almost quadrupled, from $5.2 billion in 2022 to $20.2 billion in 2025. This is one of the fastest rates of tax base expansion in the region.

Kazakhstan maintains its leadership in absolute tax revenues. In 2022, revenues amounted to $20.6 billion, and in 2023, $26.6 billion.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 2026 18:58:25 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstans-tax-revenues-have-plateaued-after-a-surge/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstans-tax-revenues-have-plateaued-after-a-surge/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Inflation in Kazakhstan Slowed Faster than Expected</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Inflation in Kazakhstan in March was 11.0% year-on-year, down from 11.7% in February and ahead of international analysts' expectations: JP Morgan forecast 11.5%, while the Bloomberg consensus was 11.6%, according to Zakon.kz.

Food products (41% of the consumer basket) contributed most to the slowdown, while service price growth slowed from 0.9% to 0.6% month-on-month. Non-food products remain more inert, but the overall easing of price pressure is already systemic.

Kazakh economist Eldar Shamsutdinov notes that the decline in inflation is not related to a weakening economy, but rather reflects the delayed effect of monetary policy tightening. The strengthening of the tenge amid rising oil prices is further curbing imported inflation.

JP Morgan and Goldman Sachs anticipate further acceleration of disinflation: their baseline scenario assumes headline inflation will reach approximately 10.2% y/y by the end of the year.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 2026 18:49:48 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/inflation-in-kazakhstan-slowed-faster-than-expected/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/inflation-in-kazakhstan-slowed-faster-than-expected/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Uzbekistan’s Foreign Trade Up 7% in Early 2026 Despite Gold Export Halt</title>
		<description><![CDATA[TASHKENT — Uzbekistan’s foreign trade turnover reached $11.6 billion in January–February 2026, up 7.1% from the same period last year, according to the National Statistics Committee, Gazeta.uz reports.

Exports fell 23.4% to $3.5 billion, mainly due to the suspension of gold shipments, which previously accounted for about 37% of total exports. The country has not exported gold since September 2025, when shipments totaled $1.48 billion. Meanwhile, imports rose 29.8% to $8.1 billion, pushing the trade deficit nearly threefold, from $1.58 billion to $4.5 billion.

Excluding gold, exports grew 22.4% to $3.5 billion, driven by services ($1.45 billion), industrial goods ($643 million), chemicals ($342 million), food ($351 million), and machinery &amp; equipment ($211 million). However, these gains only partially offset the absence of gold revenue.

Gold remains a crucial export for Uzbekistan, supporting foreign exchange earnings, tax revenues, and the national currency. Recent global market volatility,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2026 20:48:41 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbekistans-foreign-trade-up-7-in-early-2026-despite-gold-export-halt/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/uzbekistans-foreign-trade-up-7-in-early-2026-despite-gold-export-halt/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Kazakhstan’s Agricultural Exports Reach a Record $7 Billion in 2025</title>
		<description><![CDATA[ASTANA — Kazakhstan’s agricultural exports totaled 3.5 trillion tenge, or approximately $7 billion, in 2025, marking a five-year record, Zakon.kz reports, citing the Ministry of Agriculture.

The ministry noted that the key driver of export growth was the significant expansion of preferential lending for the agro-industrial sector, reaching 1 trillion tenge. The program has become not only an anti-crisis measure but also a systemic tool for transforming the agricultural industry.

The main importers of Kazakh agricultural products included Uzbekistan, China, Tajikistan, Afghanistan, Iran, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, and several other countries.

Among the most in-demand export products were wheat, wheat flour, feed flour, barley, flax seeds, sunflower oil, and oilcakes.

The Ministry of Agriculture emphasized that preferential financing has supported increased production, export growth, development of processing, and the creation of a more sustainable economic model.]]></description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 31 Mar 2026 17:56:39 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstans-agricultural-exports-reach-a-record-7-billion-in-2025/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstans-agricultural-exports-reach-a-record-7-billion-in-2025/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Kazakhstan Strengthens Its Position in EU Agricultural Market</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Kazakhstan has significantly strengthened its position in the European durum wheat market, increasing its export share from 10.2% to 13.8% and taking third place among suppliers. However, experts question whether this growth is a sustainable trend or a situational phenomenon, writes Zakon.kz.

The European durum wheat market remains highly concentrated. Canada is the undisputed leader, controlling 62% of the market (771,400 tonnes). The United States ranks second with 15% (186,200 tonnes), while Kazakhstan confidently holds third place. It is noteworthy that from 2019 to 2024, Kazakhstan's share was only 3% (approximately 33,000 tonnes), and the market was more fragmented.

The increase in export shipments is directly related to the record harvest. In 2025, Kazakhstan harvested 27.1 million tons of grain with a yield of 17 centners per hectare, of which 20.3 million tons was wheat. The resulting surplus necessitated active exports. By the end of the 2024–2025 marketing year,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Fri, 27 Mar 2026 17:08:05 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstan-strengthens-its-position-in-eu-agricultural-market/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kazakhstan-strengthens-its-position-in-eu-agricultural-market/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>Kyrgyzstan&apos;s Income From Agricultural Exports Exceeded $2 billion</title>
		<description><![CDATA[Kyrgyzstan's foreign trade turnover in agricultural, food, and processing products increased in 2025, reaching $2.1 billion, according to data from the Ministry of Agriculture, Economist.kg reports.

Kyrgyzstan's foreign trade turnover in 2025 is 22% higher than the same period in 2024.

Crop products traditionally account for the largest share of exports, with a monetary value of 7.04 billion soms (US$80.7 million).

Carrots hold a prominent place in the export basket, with total shipments last year amounting to 8,405 tons. Exports were distributed to six key destinations, with Russia leading the way with 4,546 tons and Uzbekistan purchasing 2,610 tons. Significant shipments were also sent to Tajikistan (849 tons), Mongolia (353 tons), and Kazakhstan (38 tons). Supply dynamics remain high at the beginning of 2026: carrot exports have already reached 1,013 tons,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Tue, 24 Mar 2026 18:13:30 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstans-income-from-agricultural-exports-exceeded-2-billion/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/kyrgyzstans-income-from-agricultural-exports-exceeded-2-billion/</guid>
	</item>
	<item>
		<title>In Kyrgyzstan, Growth of &quot;Gray&quot; Business Outpaces Official one</title>
		<description><![CDATA[By the end of 2024, the non-observed economy in Kyrgyzstan amounted to 308 billion soms ($3.52 billion), or 19.5% of the country's GDP. Data from the National Statistical Committee reveals which sectors of the economy contain the largest concentrations of "shadow" activity, Economist.kg reports.

Informal activity predominates in the "shadow" economy, accounting for 15.7% of GDP, while the hidden economy accounts for 3.8%, down from 4.5% in 2023. Meanwhile, the share of the informal sector increased, from 14.7% to 15.7%.

The growth rate of the non-observed economy is outpacing the official economy. In 2024, real GDP increased by 11.5%, while the shadow economy grew by 12.9% in comparable prices.

The highest level of informal activity is recorded in other services, accounting for 69.4% of the industry's added value. High shares are also observed in automobile trade and repair (65%), the hotel and restaurant business (43.9%), and transportation (35.5%).

In construction,]]></description>
		<pubDate>Mon, 23 Mar 2026 16:28:34 +0600</pubDate>
		<link>https://centralasianlight.org/news/in-kyrgyzstan-growth-of-gray-business-outpaces-official-one/</link>

	<guid>https://centralasianlight.org/news/in-kyrgyzstan-growth-of-gray-business-outpaces-official-one/</guid>
	</item>
</channel>
</rss>