00:02Uzbekistan has unveiled a five-part business reform plan with nearly 1 billion euros specifically allocated to exports, AI and
00:11business growth.
00:12President Shakyat Mirzioev announced it at his annual dialogue with around 25,000 business representatives in Hiva, western Uzbekistan.
00:22Official figures show business lending nearly tripled in five years.
00:36When immediate change concerns working capital, companies with automated electricity and gas metering and regular payment records will see advance
00:45payments fall from 100 percent to 15 percent.
01:04A new credit portal lets businesses seek offers from several banks, while eligible borrowers will provide only 25 percent of
01:14the collateral themselves.
01:15The AI Partner for 10,000 Enterprises program will cover half of the cost of adopting AI, with 86 million
01:24euros for the first phase.
01:26The reforms also aim to reduce regulatory pressure on businesses.
01:30President Mirzioev said repeated inspections can hold back development and innovation.
01:48Business fines will also be cut by half on average.
01:52From next year, the burden of proof in disputes with the state will shift.
02:06Exports are another focus.
02:08Around 862 million euros will support exporters, including through a new export navigator.
02:16The government also plans to prepare 50 companies a year for international capital markets, aiming to attract at least 1
02:23billion dollars annually.
02:25At the meeting, President Mirzioev summed up the shift clearly.
02:28Uzbek businesses are moving from starting a business to growing their capital.
02:32Talbar Primva, Euronews, Horazam.
