In a landmark address at the 4th Tashkent International Investment Forum, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev outlined a bold vision to transform Uzbekistan into a global destination for venture capital and innovation-driven entrepreneurship. With over 7,500 delegates from 100+ countries, including global investors, policymakers, and business leaders, the forum marks a pivotal moment in Uzbekistan’s economic transformation.
“Investments today are more than just capital — they are vectors of peace, stability, and shared progress,” noted President Mirziyoyev. He emphasized that Uzbekistan is committed to fostering an environment where venture capital, startups, and digital entrepreneurs can thrive alongside traditional industries.
Key Highlights for the Startup and Venture Ecosystem:
Venture Capital on the Rise
• Uzbekistan will scale alternative investment tools to unlock capital for high-growth ventures.
• A new “Law on Alternative Investment Funds” has been drafted to catalyze the VC ecosystem.
• In 2024, two Uzbek startups crossed $1 billion valuations — a historic milestone.
• The government targets $1 billion in venture and alternative investments over the next 5 years.
From Digital Ambition to Execution
• IT exports will hit $1 billion this year, with a target of $5 billion by 2030.
• A national “1 Million AI Leaders” initiative has been launched to build talent pipelines.
• Plans to build 20+ data centers in partnership with private investors signal deep commitment to digital infrastructure.
• A national AI model is under development to integrate Uzbekistan’s cultural and linguistic identity into future technologies.
Startups as Strategic Assets
• Uzbekistan is actively fostering startups through:
• Access to venture capital and angel networks
• Reforms in financial regulations to support fintech innovation
• Protection of investor rights through a guaranteed investment protection system
International Integration and Investor Confidence
• With plans to join the World Trade Organization (WTO) by next year, Uzbekistan is aligning its legal and financial frameworks to global standards.
• A “single window” platform for investors will be introduced to streamline registration, licensing, and support services.
• The country aims to achieve investment-grade sovereign ratings by 2030.
Startup-Friendly Reforms in Progress
• Uzbekistan’s national investment fund, managed by Franklin Templeton, will list on international markets via IPO.
• Reforms in insurance, capital markets, and cyberfinance are creating new opportunities for startup financing.
• Public-private partnership models are being deployed to support new ventures across green energy, digital infrastructure, and logistics.
President Shavkat Mirziyoyev:
“We are not just building an economy — we are shaping a startup nation rooted in innovation, empowered youth, and global connectivity. Uzbekistan welcomes all investors who bring capital, ideas, and the ambition to shape the future together.”
About the Tashkent International Investment Forum
Now in its fourth edition, the Tashkent International Investment Forum is a premier platform connecting global investors with transformative opportunities across Uzbekistan’s rapidly modernizing economy. The forum serves as a gateway for capital, innovation, and cross-border partnerships.
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Website: www.pivot.uz (http://www.invest.gov.uz/)
