From 16 to 18 June, Tashkent hosted the 5th Tashkent International Investment Forum (TIIF 2026). Over the past five years, the forum has evolved into a leading platform for dialogue between governments, development institutions, and the international business community. This year’s edition brought together approximately 4,000 participants from 100 countries.
Five years ago, Uzbekistan set an ambitious goal of reaching a GDP of USD 100 billion by 2026. According to the latest government estimates, the country’s GDP is expected to exceed USD 180 billion. During the same period, Uzbekistan attracted USD 123 billion in foreign investment, while its international reserves surpassed USD 70 billion.
This year’s discussions shifted from broader economic growth to the practical development of the country’s investment ecosystem. Key announcements included:
→ Tashkent International Financial Centre (TIFC): a 50-year tax regime with zero corporate income tax, VAT, and customs duties, supported by an independent regulator and a commercial court operating under English common law.
→ Special AI and Data Centre Zone in Karakalpakstan: full tax exemptions until 2040 and a preferential electricity tariff of USD 0.05 per kWh.
→ Regional connectivity: Uzbekistan continues to advance major transport corridors, including the China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan railway, the Trans-Afghan Corridor, and the Middle Corridor across the Caspian Sea, strengthening direct links between Central Asia, Azerbaijan, and European markets.
On 17 June, the Uzbekistan–Azerbaijan Business Forum was held as part of the broader TIIF agenda, further reinforcing bilateral economic cooperation.
