IMF Praises Uzbekistan’s Economic Reforms and Business Progress

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 1 April 2026, Uzbekistan’s Minister of Investments, Industry, and Trade, Laziz Kudratov, met with Yasser Abdih, head of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) mission in Uzbekistan.

During the meeting, the parties discussed economic development, capital attraction, and further improvements to the business environment. IMF representatives positively assessed Uzbekistan’s measures to ensure macroeconomic stability and effective management of external risks.

The mission also reviewed the results of ongoing reforms, including trade liberalization, simplification of business procedures, and development of export infrastructure.

It was noted that Uzbekistan is improving its standing in international rankings. In the 2026 Index of Economic Freedom, the country recorded the region’s best scores in “Investment Freedom” with 70 points and “Trade Freedom” with 80.6 points.

Following the meeting, the IMF reaffirmed its readiness to continue providing expert support for structural reforms under bilateral cooperation.