Women entrepreneurs reshape Uzbekistan’s business landscape

TASHKENT, Uzbekistan (MNTV) — Women are playing an increasingly central role in Uzbekistan’s private sector, with new figures showing a sharp rise in female-led businesses across the country.

According to Daryo news, as of the start of this year nearly 44,000 small businesses and micro-firms were headed by women, an increase of more than 6% compared with 2024. The growth reflects a broader surge in small enterprises nationwide, which now account for more than four-fifths of Uzbekistan’s total business activity.

Tashkent city leads the way with 12,800 women-run firms, followed by the Tashkent region (5,600) and Samarkand (3,900). Other regions also show growing participation, including Karakalpakstan (2,800) and Khorezm (2,600). 

Observers say the spread of female entrepreneurship beyond the capital highlights a gradual cultural shift across the country.

The majority of these enterprises operate in trade, industry, agriculture, construction, and food services — sectors that are driving much of Uzbekistan’s domestic economic growth. 

Analysts note that the expansion of women-owned firms also signals a cultural shift, as female entrepreneurs take on greater visibility in spaces historically dominated by men.

In total, Uzbekistan had more than 460,000 registered enterprises by August, with small and micro-firms forming the overwhelming majority.

 Officials highlight that between January and July alone, over 51,000 new enterprises were registered, a large portion led by women or involving women in key decision-making roles.

The steady rise of women in business mirrors Uzbekistan’s wider economic transformation, as reforms encourage private enterprise, attract foreign investment, and diversify opportunities beyond traditional industries. 

For many, the increasing presence of women entrepreneurs is not only reshaping the business map but also redefining what leadership looks like in modern Uzbekistan.