Mastercard Economics Institute Forecasts Uzbekistan’s GDP Growth at 6% in 2026

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Uzbekistan’s gross domestic product (GDP) is expected to grow by 6% in 2026, allowing the country’s economy to outpace the growth rates of other Central Asian states.

This projection comes from a report by the Mastercard Economics Institute (MEI), which notes that strong domestic demand will be a key driver of economic development.

According to MEI, Uzbekistan accounts for 0.2% of the global economy. The report also forecasts that Central Asia’s economy as a whole will grow by 4.5% in 2026, U.S. GDP by 2.2%, China’s by 4.5%, and global GDP by 3.1%.

“The global economy remains resilient, but growth trajectories will vary depending on countries’ levels of digital maturity, trade connections, and investment policies,” emphasized Mastercard Chief Economist Michelle Meyer.

The MEI report highlights three major macroeconomic trends: the restructuring of international trade, the active adoption of artificial intelligence, and the shift of small and medium-sized enterprises to online platforms.

Experts predict that in 2026 consumers will allocate spending rationally, prioritizing technology-driven purchases while maintaining interest in travel and new experiences.