Latest news in Uzbekistan? September 18th, 2026
18-09-2026
Key Developments in Uzbekistan (September 2026)
Tourism Surge: The Uzbekistan Tourism Committee reported that international tourist arrivals reached 9.1 million between January and August 2026, marking a 21.1% increase compared to the same period in 2025. Tourism service exports grew to $4.6 billion, buoyed by major infrastructure expansions and route upgrades across regional corridors.
State Asset Privatization: President Shavkat Mirziyoyev approved an updated privatization roadmap targeting major state-owned assets. Properties valued at roughly 14 trillion soums (approximately $1.2 billion) are slated for transfer to private ownership by the end of 2026 as part of broader market liberalization initiatives.
Economic & Pension Reforms: Government agencies have advanced draft proposals for structural adjustments to the national pension framework, including phased recalibrations to the retirement eligibility thresholds and an expansion of funded pension mechanisms planned for implementation starting in 2027.
Regional Diplomacy & Trade: Bilateral trade turnover between Uzbekistan and key Eurasian partners maintained upward momentum through the third quarter, with trade volumes reaching over $8.1 billion through July on track to target $14 billion by year-end. Focus areas remain energy coordination, logistics corridors, and agricultural exports.
Tech & Business Census: The Ministry of Justice finalized preparations for a comprehensive nationwide business census launching in October 2026, alongside upcoming regional technology showcases scheduled for late September in Tashkent.