The Presidential Decree issued on November 12, 2025 marks one of the most significant steps toward elevating Uzbekistan’s economic partnership with the United States to a new and more strategic level. The decree aims to strengthen Uzbekistan’s position in the global economic system, attract major foreign investment, and deepen cooperation with the international business community.
Establishing the council — a new institutional pillar of bilateral cooperation
According to the decree, during the President’s official visit to the United States in November 2025, and within the framework of the “C5+1” Summit, both sides reached a final agreement on the establishment of the U.S.–Uzbekistan Business and Investment Council. This structure will serve as the principal coordinator of major projects, strategic initiatives, and commercial cooperation between the two nations.
The Council will be co-chaired by the Head of the Presidential Administration of Uzbekistan and the representative of the U.S. President. This demonstrates the highest-level political support for all initiatives and projects undertaken within this partnership.
Priority directions of the council’s work
The decree outlines several key areas that the Council is mandated to prioritize, all of which aim to fundamentally strengthen bilateral economic cooperation.
1. Coordination of major investment and trade projects
The Council will centralize the development, negotiation, and monitoring of major initiatives. This will create greater convenience for investors and reduce bureaucratic barriers.
2. Creation of a special investment fund
A new investment fund will be established to attract additional resources to Uzbekistan. The fund is expected to involve:
- the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC),
- as well as major international financial institutions such as the EBRD, IFC, and ADB.
This will provide stable financing for large-scale infrastructure, energy, technology, logistics, and other strategic projects.
3. Continued negotiations on reducing tariff barriers
Lowering tariffs will boost trade volume and enhance competitiveness of bilateral exports.
4. Promoting IT Park resident companies in the U.S. market
As Uzbekistan’s digital economy rapidly expands, systematic support for IT companies entering the American market has become especially important.
5. Diversifying Uzbekistan’s investment portfolio
The Central Bank is tasked with proposing reforms that would channel part of the country’s assets and reserves into more profitable, high-liquidity instruments—including U.S.-based assets.
Expanded diplomatic presence — a new model of engagement
The decree introduces a new position within Uzbekistan’s Embassy in Washington, D.C.: Adviser-Ambassador, who will begin work on January 1, 2026. This official will be responsible for:
- initiating and negotiating major investment and trade projects,
- coordinating Uzbekistan’s work within the Council,
- supporting the enhancement of bilateral economic relations.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is also instructed to expand the Embassy’s staff and to study the establishment of new consulates in cities with large Uzbek communities — Philadelphia, Chicago, Orlando, and Seattle.
This will significantly improve consular coverage and strengthen engagement with the Uzbek diaspora across the United States.
New financial liberalization for Uzbek residents operating in the U.S.
Beginning January 2026, Uzbek residents engaged in investment activities in the United States will benefit from key financial reforms. Specifically:
- transferring funds for investment operations,
- replenishing working capital of U.S.-based branches,
will be allowed without restrictions, within the limits of residents’ bank accounts in Uzbekistan.
This will expand opportunities for Uzbek entrepreneurs operating in foreign markets.
Permanent council office and participation of U.S. experts
The decree also provides for the creation of a permanent executive office of the Council in the United States, with staffing to include American specialists. This will ensure that the Council functions according to international best practices and maintains continuous interaction with both governments and private sector representatives.
This Presidential Decree marks a transformative step forward in strengthening U.S.–Uzbekistan economic partnership. The creation of a strategic investment fund, the establishment of a high-level Council, the expansion of diplomatic representation, and a modern approach to diaspora engagement all serve to:
- improve Uzbekistan’s investment environment,
- diversify and stabilize the national economy,
- facilitate broader access to the U.S. market,
- and enhance the country’s global competitiveness.
This is a crucial milestone that will accelerate Uzbekistan’s economic development and solidify its role as a dynamic and open partner on the world stage.
