Uzbekistan continues to change the rules for business and the economy while expanding international cooperation and investment opportunities. This week, decisions were made in the areas of currency regulation, foreign trade, energy, labor migration, and entrepreneurship support.
Inflation expectations in Uzbekistan decreased to a new minimum
Inflation expectations in Uzbekistan have fallen to the lowest level in recent months after seven months of continuous decline, according to a Central Bank survey. The average expected inflation rate over the 12-month period was 11.5%, decreasing both monthly and yearly. A decrease was recorded among the population and entrepreneurs, indicating a more restrained perception of price increases in the economy. At the same time, housing and communal services tariffs and energy prices remain the main factors influencing expectations.
Transboundary remittances to Uzbekistan increased by 25%
The growth of cross-border transfers to $17.3 billion since the beginning of 2025 has increased foreign currency inflows into the Uzbek economy. Over 11 months, the population sold almost twice as much currency to banks as it bought, creating a positive balance of $8.7 billion. This indicator was 42.6% higher than last year’s level and supported the supply of foreign currency in the domestic market. At the same time, the outflow of funds abroad through international transfers decreased by $157 million.
A “Business Hamroh” platform will be launched in Uzbekistan for entrepreneurs
A network of “Business Hamroh” centers will be established in the country, combining public and private services for entrepreneurs based on the “single window” principle. The centers will begin operating in March 2026 and will first appear in Tashkent, Nukus, and regional centers. In them, businesses will be able to access more than 1,000 government functions, as well as consulting, financial, and IT services. In parallel, a digital platform and a call center for receiving entrepreneurs’ appeals will be launched.
The number of foreign-invested companies in Uzbekistan rose by 1.7% over the month
Experts have noted a steady increase in the number of companies with foreign investments — as of December 1, there are 17,900 of them. During the month, more than 300 new enterprises with foreign participation were created. The largest number of foreign companies operate in trade, industry, construction, and IT services. Such a structure indicates the continued interest of investors in sectors with rapid turnover and growth potential.
Uzbekistan Has Expanded the List of Branded Products Eligible for Preferential Imports
Uzbekistan has expanded the list of branded goods imported with reduced customs duties. It included everyday necessities, including coffee, dishes, textiles, and household goods. For most items, rates are set at 5-10%, and for coffee — zero duty. Changes can lead to an increase in the range of branded products and increase their accessibility to consumers.
Qatar intends to attract medical professionals from Uzbekistan
Qatar plans to recruit medical professionals from Uzbekistan as part of a partnership agreement. The agreements were discussed during negotiations between agency head Behzod Musayev and Qatar’s Jusour recruiting company management. The Qatari side stated a high need for nurses, IT specialists, construction workers, and telecommunications workers. For surgeons, so-called “golden visas” are provided.
Uzbekistan abolishes more than 1,600 requirements for entrepreneurs
The Cabinet of Ministers approved a resolution on the abolition of about 1,600 restrictions and mandatory requirements for entrepreneurs. The document provides for the cancellation of conformity certification for 1568 commodity items and a significant simplification of the rules for individual entrepreneurs. Individual entrepreneurs have been granted the right to import goods without a limit, lease housing to tourists for more than 30 days, and work in new areas. The Ministry of Justice noted that such a large-scale cancellation of requirements is being carried out for the first time.
Uzbekistan has become a net exporter of electricity
In 2025, Uzbekistan transitioned to a positive electricity balance and became a net exporter, the Energy Minister said. The country plans to supply 2.6 billion kWh of electricity to Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. The transition from imports to exports became possible thanks to additional energy reserves and the commissioning of new capacities. The export of electricity also made it possible to maintain water supply in neighboring countries during the growing season.
Uzbekistan and the EU have begun consultations on visa simplification
In 2025, Uzbekistan transitioned to a positive electricity balance and became a net exporter, the Energy Minister said. The country plans to supply 2.6 billion kWh of electricity to Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. The transition from imports to exports became possible thanks to additional energy reserves and the commissioning of new capacities. The export of electricity also made it possible to maintain water supply in neighboring countries during the growing season.
Uzbek citizens will be able to invest in US companies without restrictions
Uzbekistan will simplify residents’ investments in American companies, eliminating the need to obtain permits and limits. The new rules will take effect from January 1, 2026, and will allow investing any amounts within the limits of funds in accounts in Uzbek banks. The changes concern the creation of businesses, the acquisition of shares, and the financing of foreign branches. For other countries, the current currency restrictions are maintained.
Negotiations Near the Finish Line: Uzbekistan Expresses Concern Over the Slowdown in Accession to the WTO
Uzbekistan stated the risk of unintentional slowdown in the WTO accession process and called for more substantive feedback from the working group members. According to the chief negotiator, the country is fully committed to joining and has already implemented significant reforms. Negotiations for access to markets have practically been completed, however, some protocols remain unsigned due to reasons not related to trade conditions. Uzbekistan expects to complete the process by the 14th WTO Ministerial Conference in March 2026.
