Government agencies to relocate to a single building in 15 districts of Uzbekistan

In 15 districts and cities across Uzbekistan, all government agencies will be relocated to a single multi-story building in each district center. As a result, 150 buildings vacated by these agencies will be auctioned off to entrepreneurs. This announcement was made on March 19 during a meeting between President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and representatives of small and medium-sized businesses, where discussions focused on increasing the sector's role in the economy and elevating its development.  

The government’s plan aims to optimize administrative efficiency while providing new opportunities for business growth. The first and second floors of the new buildings will be sold to entrepreneurs, allowing them to establish and expand their businesses.

Over the past three years, 250,000 new enterprises have launched operations in Uzbekistan. However, many still require land and infrastructure to sustain and grow their businesses.  

"When selecting land, governors should prioritize auctioning locations requested by entrepreneurs who are eager to expand and have ready-to-implement projects," President Mirziyoyev stated.  

For example, the Mingboev Robotics enterprise in Yunusabad produces prostheses and exoskeletons, helping around 100 people with disabilities reintegrate into active social life. The company has requested a more accessible location to facilitate entry and exit for individuals with disabilities.  

To support such high-tech ventures, it has been decided that state-owned facilities of up to 10,000 square meters will be leased free of charge for five years to entrepreneurs developing innovative products. Additionally, an extra 500 billion sums will be allocated to the 1 trillion sums already set aside for infrastructure projects supporting small and medium-sized businesses this year.

Venture capital is emerging as an alternative source of financing for businesses in Uzbekistan. Over the past five years, 53 startup projects worth $145 million have been launched with the involvement of venture funds. However, this figure remains insufficient. To address this, nine state banks have established three venture companies, forming a $50 million investment fund—a significant opportunity for emerging entrepreneurs.  

"Most importantly, such projects introduce new directions, technologies, innovations, and high-value-added products to the economy.  

Highly effective innovative products or services developed through startups are incorporated into technical regulations and standards. This, in turn, paves the way for them to receive government orders," President Mirziyoyev noted.  

The head of state also supported a proposal to allocate part of the venture funds toward artificial intelligence projects, further promoting technological advancement in Uzbekistan.