In 2026, the government of Uzbekistan plans to continue its efforts to reduce poverty and promote entrepreneurship by expanding access to financing for small and medium-sized enterprises. Fergana reports that at a recent meeting chaired by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, it was announced that business lending will increase to 140 trillion soums (approximately $11.7 billion), supporting projects for around 100,000 individuals.
According to official sources, in order to sustain high economic growth and employment, commercial banks are expected to inject 450 trillion soums ($37.6 billion) into the national economy in 2026.
Since the beginning of this year, entrepreneurs have already received 116 trillion soums ($9.7 billion) in business development loans — a 40% increase compared to the same period last year. Special emphasis has been placed on supporting small and medium enterprises.
In addition, under community-level development initiatives, 89,000 people have received loans totaling 1.1 trillion soums ($92 million). That number is expected to reach 100,000 by the end of the year.
The meeting also highlighted that ongoing efforts to boost domestic supply and curb inflation are yielding positive results. As of November 1, annual inflation had decreased to 7.8%, down from 10.2% a year earlier. The government aims to lower this figure to 7% in 2026 and to 5% by 2027.
To achieve these targets, the government will focus on increasing the supply of goods and services in the domestic market. Banks will ramp up financing for projects in the agricultural sector, food industry, and service sectors, while continuing efforts to stabilize prices on essential food products.
President Mirziyoyev emphasized that the main goal of financial policy is to create a stable and predictable environment for both citizens and businesses, strengthen trust in the banking system, and promote healthy competition in the financial market.
