Uzbekistan to back 1,000 fintech startups as investment tops $260M
More than 100 firms now operate in Uzbekistan, with a five-year plan and open banking reforms set to drive further expansion
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan (MNTV) — Officials and entrepreneurs have unveiled proposals to accelerate the country’s financial technology sector, as Uzbekistan looks to position itself as a regional fintech hub. The push comes amid rapid global expansion of digital finance, projected to surpass $600 billion by 2030.
According to UZ Daily, Uzbekistan’s fintech landscape has transformed in recent years: while only 24 companies were active in 2018, more than 100 now operate, attracting over $260 million in foreign investment in 2025 — four times the previous year’s total.
Industry plans discussed this week include a five-year national fintech strategy, the rollout of open banking, and support for up to 1,000 startups. International expertise, including advisors from Singapore, is being tapped to help shape the framework, covering regulation, infrastructure, and talent development.
Analysts say modern financial services are increasingly reliant on artificial intelligence and blockchain applications, which can boost bank revenues, expand services, and reduce risks. Officials confirmed that a dedicated Fintech Office will be set up under the Central Bank to coordinate growth and measure outcomes.
Uzbekistan also intends to launch an innovation hub to speed up new product development and draw further investment. Proponents argue that building a competitive and inclusive digital finance system could reduce the economy’s reliance on traditional banking and broaden access to financial services.
The plans reflect a broader regional race to capture fintech growth. Countries across Central Asia are seeking to modernize payment systems and attract venture funding, while global investors continue to eye emerging markets for the next wave of financial technology adoption.
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