Uzbekistan Charts Path to 9-10% GDP Growth, With Infrastructure as Cornerstone

Source: President of the Republic of Uzbekistan, "President outlines priorities to sustain high economic growth and improve living standards," July 21, 2026.

https://www.president.uz/en/lists/view/9426

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has challenged Uzbekistan to achieve a 9-10% annual economic growth rate, deeming it essential for significantly improving the living standards of its 40 million citizens. While the economy expanded by a robust 8.5% in the first half of 2026, the president emphasized the need for acceleration, moving beyond statistical achievements to tangible results that directly impact people's daily lives and business climate.

The construction sector has emerged as a key engine of this expansion, growing by 13.8% in the first six months. This vigorous activity is underpinned by substantial investment, which reached $28 billion, and a notable vote of confidence from international markets, as evidenced by sovereign credit rating upgrades from Fitch and Moody's. To sustain this momentum, President Mirziyoyev has directed additional funding towards regions, districts, and cities to bolster entrepreneurship and upgrade social infrastructure, acknowledging the need to build resilience amid ongoing global uncertainty.

The administration is placing significant emphasis on accountability. Regional governors and sector ministers have been instructed to identify and leverage untapped growth opportunities, with clear year-end targets. The president delivered a sharp warning that reported achievements would be judged by their real-world impact, improving quality of life and easing business operations. And that failure to meet performance goals could have professional consequences.

The government's ambitious outlook is reflected in the Ministry of Economy and Finance's revised 2026 GDP growth forecast of 8.1%, up from 6.6%, which would mark the country's strongest performance in recent years. With GDP projected to approach $180 billion and inflation targeted at 6.5%, Uzbekistan is signaling a clear commitment to an accelerated development path where physical infrastructure and social investment are central to its national strategy.

Uzbekistan's escalating construction and industrial activity, fueled by surging investment, is creating substantial demand for advanced equipment and materials. Events like CAIHE Central Asia provide a vital platform connecting local suppliers and project developers with international manufacturers, directly supporting the sectoral expansion that underpins the country's ambitious economic goals.

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