Central Asia is on the move. From Kazakhstan’s economic upgrades to Uzbekistan’s gold boom and eco-tourism push, the region is making bold strides. Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan aren’t standing still either — with new trade ties, green efforts, and a focus on healthcare and tourism. Here's a look at what's driving this regional momentum.
Kazakhstan
Key growth sectors of Kazakhstan's economy revealed
Kazakhstan's Bureau of National Statistics has identified the leading sectors contributing to the country's economic growth in early 2024. The industries showing the most significant growth include construction, information and communication, as well as transport and warehousing. Overall, the national GDP grew by 3.7% in the first quarter.
Source: tengrinews.kz
Kazakhstan launches guarantee funds to support SMEs and major investment projects
Kazakhstan has introduced new guarantee funds aimed at facilitating access to financing for small and medium-sized businesses, as well as large investment projects. These funds are designed to reduce risks for lenders and stimulate economic growth through broader credit availability.
Source: zakon.kz
New service added to eGov Mobile app in Kazakhstan
A new feature has been introduced in the eGov Mobile application, allowing users to submit applications for the recognition of foreign diplomas. This update aims to simplify the process for Kazakhstani citizens who have received education abroad, making it more convenient and accessible.
Source: tengrinews.kz
New terminal at Almaty airport named the best in the World
The newly opened terminal at Almaty International Airport has been recognized as the best in the world by the World Airport Awards 2024. The terminal was praised for its modern infrastructure, passenger comfort, and technological innovation, marking a major milestone in Kazakhstan's aviation sector.
Source: tengrinews.kz
Kazakh wrestling star Jamila Bakbergenova tops world rankings
Kazakh wrestler Jamila Bakbergenova has become the leader in the 72 kg weight category in the world rankings. She achieved this milestone after securing her fourth gold at the Asian Championship in March 2025 in Amman, surpassing Japan’s Ami Ishi, who had held the top spot since 2024.
Source: zakon.kz
Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan strengthen trade relations
Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan are enhancing their trade and economic relations. On April 7, 2025, the Trade Mission of the Kyrgyz Republic held meetings in Tashkent to promote Kyrgyz products in the Uzbek market. The discussions included supplying Kyrgyz goods to major retail chains and exploring opportunities for joint production, aiming to strengthen cooperation between the two countries.
Source: 24.kg
Kyrgyzstan launches "Electronic Consul" website
Kyrgyzstan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has launched the "Electronic Consul" website to improve consular services. The platform offers information on consular services, travel regulations, and allows online consultations in multiple languages. New features include online appointment scheduling and consular registration, available through popular messaging apps.
Source: 24.kg
Kyrgyzstan launches Global Money Week 2025
Kyrgyzstan has kicked off the annual Global Money Week campaign from April 8 to 15, 2025, focusing on financial literacy under the theme “Wisdom first, money in your wallet tomorrow.” The campaign aims to provide youth with reliable financial information. Various events, including lessons, seminars, open days, and interactive games, will take place across the country with the support of government agencies, banks, and educational institutions.
Source: 24.kg
Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan to recognize each other's driver’s licenses
Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan have signed an agreement to mutually recognize and exchange national driver’s licenses. Citizens of one country residing in the other will be able to exchange their valid licenses without taking a theoretical or practical exam, provided they meet certain requirements.
Source: 24.kg
Kyrgyzstan aims to attract $180 million to plant 10 million trees
Kyrgyzstan plans to plant over 10 million trees on 25 000 hectares in the Issyk-Kul region. The project is expected to attract up to $180 million in climate financing. A key component of the initiative is the creation of carbon credits, which will allow the country to offset greenhouse gas emissions and gain access to international green financing markets.
Source: 24.kg
Testing of the digital som prototype begins in Kyrgyzstan
Kyrgyzstan is actively working on the introduction of the digital som, the national currency in digital form. Key details of the project, including its legal status and testing plans, have been revealed. The digital som will exist alongside cash and non-cash forms of payment, allowing for easy conversion between them.
Source: 24.kg
Uzbekistan
Uzum Bank signs agreement to purchase ATMs worth $21 million
Uzum Bank has signed a contract with the Lithuanian company Penkių kontinentų bankinės technologijos to supply ATMs worth 325.32 billion UZS, around $21.18 million. This amount accounts for 47% of the bank’s net assets. Testing of the first ATMs is currently underway in Tashkent.
Source: spot.uz
ChatGPT developer registers in Uzbekistan’s tax system
On April 8, 2025, OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, officially registered as a provider of electronic services in Uzbekistan's tax system. This move will allow OpenAI to provide its services in the country and pay value-added tax. Since its arrival in Uzbekistan in 2023, ChatGPT has quickly gained popularity, becoming one of the most visited websites in the country.
Source: spot.uz
Uzbekistan and World Bank launch a project for sustainable landscape restoration worth $153 million
At the climate forum in Samarkand, Uzbekistan's Ministry of Ecology and the World Bank launched the "Sustainable Landscape Restoration in Uzbekistan" project. The initiative, with funding of $153 million, aims to expand forested areas and improve living conditions in regions affected by land degradation. The project will focus on six regions and will also support eco-tourism development and small business growth.
Source: gazeta.uz
Uzbekistan became the world's largest gold seller in February
In February, Uzbekistan became the largest seller of gold globally, selling 12 tons of the precious metal. Kazakhstan followed, reducing its reserves by 8 tons. The total gold reserves of Uzbekistan still make up 77.6% of its overall reserves. Uzbekistan's gold export in February reached $1.73 billion, marking a 31.3% increase compared to February 2024.
Source: gazeta.uz
French "Courchevel" interested in creating resorts in Uzbekistan
French ski resort "Courchevel" is interested in developing European-level tourist zones in Uzbekistan, as announced by the president. A new ski resort is being built on the "Oltin Bel" summit in Parkent, which will be four times larger than the Amirsoy complex. Over the past eight years, local and foreign investors have invested $6.5 billion, creating 130 000 hotel beds, with another 30 000 planned for this year.
Source: gazeta.uz
Tajikistan
Tajik ophthalmologist wins prestigious Golden Heart Award
On April 3, in London, the final of the international competition The Women Changing The World Awards took place, where Tajik ophthalmologist Parvina Mirakhmedova was the only representative from Central Asia. She was nominated in three categories: Women in Health, Tech Innovation Award, and Innovation Award. Parvina won the Tech Innovation Award and took second place in Women in Health. The highlight of the evening came when Parvina received the Golden Heart Award, a recognition of her achievements.
Source: asiaplustj.media