#Uzbekistan #Tashkent #Foreign Investment

Uzbekistan's Remarkable Foreign Investment Surge in 2024

In 2024, Uzbekistan has made headlines with a striking increase in foreign investment, surpassing 60% to reach a record $34.9 billion. This report, released by the Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade (MIIT), highlights the nation's inspiring journey toward becoming a key destination for foreign direct investment (FDI). As part of this optimistic trend, projections indicate that international investments are expected to soar to $42 billion by 2025.

The Tashkent International Investment Forum, which kicked off on June 9, serves as a platform to unveil the report titled "New Uzbekistan: The Big Country With Big Opportunities – Reform In Action." This forum has gathered an impressive number of over 3,000 international participants, including investors, policymakers, and business leaders from 95 countries, all eager to explore the significant opportunities Uzbekistan offers.

One of the key factors driving this extraordinary growth is the government's commitment to overhauling its economic framework. Uzbekistan has implemented several crucial reforms aimed at simplifying business operations. These reforms include a revamped tax structure and more transparent regulations that collectively contribute to a supportive environment for investments.

An essential part of this initiative is the "Uzbekistan 2030" strategy, which aims to transform the country’s economy comprehensively. The report outlines substantial developments in various sectors, thereby attracting global interest.

Notable highlights from the report include:

• - A burgeoning green energy sector aiming to substantially increase its renewable energy generation to 26% by the end of 2025.
• - Successful sovereign bond issuance totaling $12 billion from 2019 to 2025, with $2.84 billion already issued in 2025 alone, listed on the London Stock Exchange.
• - A significant $3 billion investment aimed at creating an AI-enabled and sustainable data center designed to support 250 MW of energy capacity.
• - The establishment of 28 Special Economic Zones (SEZs), 389 Small Industrial Zones (SIZs), and 23 technology parks, all supporting 6,997 enterprises as of April 2025.
• - Plans for 76 strategic projects valued at over $2.6 billion over the next three years, targeting the extraction and processing of vital minerals.
• - A pioneering equity market initiated with the launch of Uzbekistan's National Investment Fund (UzNIF), with Franklin Templeton appointed as its trustee and fund manager.
• - Insights into the demographic landscape, revealing that 40% of the population is under 25, indicating a youthful market potential.
• - E-commerce is projected to constitute 9–11% of total retail sales by 2027, reflecting growing digital adoption.

The Tashkent International Investment Forum not only celebrates these achievements but also serves as a testament to Uzbekistan's ambitious plans for the future. The active participation and enthusiasm displayed by the international community signal a bright future for foreign investments in the region. As Uzbekistan continues on this trajectory of reform and modernization, it firmly establishes itself as a prime location for investors seeking to capitalize on emerging markets.

For further details, interested parties can explore the full report by visiting MIIT's official website.

This significant surge in foreign investment clearly marks a new era for Uzbekistan, showcasing its potential for extensive economic growth and opportunity for local and global investors alike.