This story reflects a broader shift: private enterprise is becoming a key partner in Uzbekistan’s national development – not just an economic actor, but a driver of innovation, investment and social progress. The private sector moves fast, sees opportunity in risk and adapts quickly – qualities essential for a country undergoing deep reform and global reintegration.

Uzbekistan is embracing this potential. Entrepreneurs are already competing at international levels across sectors – from healthcare and IT to renewable energy and tourism. Crucially, the government is now creating space for business to lead.

In recent years, we’ve seen real change. There is growing dialogue between government and business, more public-private partnerships and support for local production, exports and green innovation. Officials are expected to engage directly in the regions, and a culture of public accountability is taking root. The establishment of the Public Council for Entrepreneurship Support and the President’s frequent meetings with business leaders signal a serious commitment to reform.

Digitisation, transparency and inclusion are becoming more than slogans. Entrepreneurs are being heard – and more importantly, they’re being answered. Change is not yet universal, and in many places it remains ad hoc. But a new economic map is emerging. The next step is to scale what works and institutionalise it – especially in areas where bureaucracy and outdated practices still slow progress.

Going forward, three principles are vital: predictability, transparency and trust. These are not luxuries – they are prerequisites for long-term investment and sustainable growth. Businesses will take risks if the rules are stable and fair. The signal from the top is clear: entrepreneurship is a national priority. Now that must become the daily reality for every entrepreneur, in every sector, across the country.

Of course, serious challenges remain

First, the talent gap: businesses need skilled workers – engineers, technicians, service staff – with a modern, tech-savvy mindset. This is especially urgent in rural areas, where new ventures often struggle to build capable teams. Quality education isn’t just economic policy – it’s national strategy. It curbs brain drain, reduces crime and strengthens the middle class.

At Amirsoy we train staff in English, bring in native-speaking instructors and offer international certifications. Whether they stay or move on, it’s an investment in the nation. We need this people-first, growth-oriented approach across the board.

Second, local inertia: despite strong backing from the top, many decisions are still centralised. Some local officials micromanage rather than enable, and high turnover erodes continuity. We need a system that rewards merit, values reputation and sees civil society as a partner – not a threat. True progress happens when state, business and community move together.

Third, a fear of mistakes: entrepreneurship is built on risk. Trial and error is how innovation happens. Yet too often a single misstep is treated as a punishable offence. That’s why the president’s “first chance” initiative – shielding entrepreneurs from liability for initial, non-malicious errors – was so welcome. It’s not just legal reform; it’s a cultural shift toward trusting business to grow through experimentation.

Fourth, access to finance: high interest rates and limited lending options still constrain even the most promising ventures. Uzbekistan’s improving credit rating and growing financial infrastructure are steps in the right direction. Lower borrowing costs and greater transparency will help unlock long-term capital and fuel sustainable growth.

Finally, sustainability must become systemic: environmental and social governance (ESG) is no longer optional – it’s a global benchmark. Leading Uzbek businesses are already reducing carbon footprints, investing in recycling and supporting local communities. But without clear national standards or regulatory incentives, ESG remains inconsistent. The government can lead by creating smart policy, recognising best practices and helping to embed sustainability into our economic culture.

We are at a pivotal moment. Uzbekistan is not only open to the world – it is transforming from within. The reforms of recent years have built momentum. Now, we must ensure that transformation is deep, inclusive and lasting.

The private sector is ready. We’re not just seeking permission – we’re offering ideas. We want to lead, not just adapt. We’ve shown that when trusted, we deliver – whether on a mountain slope or in a tech park.

The time has come for a new kind of partnership: clear rules, shared responsibility and mutual respect. Not bureaucracy but trust; not control but collaboration.

Business is not a burden on the state – it is its wings. And if those wings are free to fly, they will carry Uzbekistan to a future of prosperity, creativity and global leadership.