Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On 9 April, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev chaired a video conference focused on enhancing regional tourism potential and accelerating the implementation of projects involving foreign investment.

In recent years, Uzbekistan’s tourism exports have increased 1.6 times, reaching US$3.5 billion, and over 2,000 new entrepreneurs have entered the sector. Last year, for the first time, the number of foreign tourists exceeded 10 million. Tourism infrastructure continues to grow — over the past eight years, US$6.5 billion has been invested in the sector, resulting in 130,000 hotel beds.

Currently, there are 20 designated “tourist villages” across the country, and a new international ski resort is being developed atop Oltin Bel in Parkent District of the Tashkent region. Given Uzbekistan’s rich historical, cultural, and natural heritage, the potential exists to double or even triple tourist numbers. However, challenges remain in some regions, including poor road and transport infrastructure, as well as a shortage of entertainment venues and engaging travel programs.

The meeting proposed measures to identify local opportunities and improve tourism conditions. For example, Sariosiyo District, with its mountainous terrain, has strong winter tourism potential. Projects worth US$200 million could be implemented there, including the construction of cable cars, hotels, and retail and service facilities. Chartak District, with its beautiful nature and healing springs, was noted for its potential in medical tourism.

As part of a broader development program, 36 districts and cities will implement tourism projects across sectors such as ethno-, gastronomic, medical, extreme, cultural-historical, pilgrimage, and agrotourism. Special attention is being given to promoting Uzbekistan’s tourism potential through leading international channels like BBC and Euronews, as well as participation in over 20 international exhibitions.

Efforts are underway to simplify visa procedures and purchase modern aircraft to improve transportation links.

Since 1 September 2022, the "Travel Uzbekistan!" program has been in effect, offering cashback to citizens who travel domestically.

Domestic tourism is also booming, with the number of local tourists reaching 23 million in recent years. However, many still haven’t explored other regions. To encourage this, a proposal was made to declare one weekend day each month as a "family and workplace travel day," and winners of youth competitions will be awarded domestic travel vouchers.

Preserving cultural heritage remains a key priority. Over the past four years, 327 cultural sites have been restored or preserved, while another 485 require renovation. The government aims to involve the private sector in restoration and business projects and improve leasing mechanisms and revenue tracking through digital tools.

In the education sector, the duration of tourism-related higher education programs has been reduced from four to three years, a dual education system has been introduced, and student internships and employment abroad are planned.

These reforms are expected to attract 15 million tourists in 2025 and raise tourism service exports to US$4 billion.

Another major topic at the meeting was the review of foreign investment projects. In Q1 2025 alone, 178 agreements totaling US$39 billion were reached during visits to the UAE, Malaysia, Kuwait, and France. At the recent Samarkand summit, the EU pledged €12 billion to Central Asia.

As a result, Uzbekistan aims to attract US$42 billion in foreign investment in 2025, implement 81 major projects and over 8,000 small- and medium-sized ones, secure US$2 billion in grants and US$6 billion in bank financing. International investment forums are scheduled, including in Jizzakh in April and Tashkent in June.

Since the beginning of the year, under a new system of cooperation with international financial institutions, US$706 million has already been disbursed, pushing forward projects in heat energy, agriculture, and infrastructure.

The meeting also reviewed successful international partnerships in energy, transport, agriculture, utilities, and social services, including US$1.5 billion in funding from the World Bank, EBRD, ADB, AFD, and the Islamic Development Bank. The Deputy Prime Minister was tasked with replicating these experiences across regions and preparing additional projects worth at least US$3 billion.

The meeting concluded with proposals from ministers, regional governors, ambassadors, and tourism industry representatives on improving performance in tourism and investment.