CERR Presents Assessment of Uzbekistan’s Business Environment for Foreign IT Professionals and Companies

CERR Presents Assessment of Uzbekistan’s Business Environment for Foreign IT Professionals and Companies

The joint CERR–IT Park study analyzed business conditions and integration mechanisms for foreign specialists and companies operating in Uzbekistan. The research includes both quantitative and qualitative methods, based on surveys of foreign specialists and international companies, as well as focus group discussions involving executives of IT Park resident companies.

This analysis offers insight into the progress made and areas for policy enhancement in attracting international talent and investment.

Profile and Sentiment of Relocated IT Specialists

According to the survey conducted by CERR, the average foreign IT professional who has relocated to Uzbekistan is a skilled foreign specialist approximately 38 years old, married, and with children. Specifically, 66% of respondents are married, and 40% are raising children under the age of 16.

A stable macroeconomic environment and favorable conditions for IT business contribute to a high level of confidence. Notably, 96% of surveyed companies and 82% of foreign specialists intend to continue their activities in Uzbekistan in the near future. Furthermore, 93% of company representatives and 81% of specialists would recommend Uzbekistan as an attractive destination for IT relocation.

IT Sector Growth and Expanding Export Geography

The number of foreign companies registered as IT Park residents has reached 752 – a 54-fold increase compared to 2020. The total number of resident legal entities grew from 411 to 2,846, and the number of export-oriented companies increased from 62 to 750.

Export geography has also expanded significantly: in 2020, IT exports reached 26 countries; as of June 2025, this number had risen to 90 – a 3.5-fold increase. Key export destinations include North America (46% of total exports), the EU and UK (21%), the CIS and Asia-Pacific region (27%), and the Middle East (6%). This reflects growing global demand for digital services from Uzbekistan.

Over the past 5–7 years, there has been a marked increase in foreign business activity and inflow of qualified professionals. Since early 2022, the number of foreign IT Park residents has grown by 77%, and the number of foreign specialists has increased by 87% with a 54-fold rise compared to 2020.

Incentives and Tax Regime

Uzbekistan offers a comprehensive package of benefits for IT companies and foreign professionals. IT Park residents are exempt from corporate income tax and mandatory social contributions, while the personal income tax rate is reduced to 7.5%. These measures are highly appreciated by businesses – 91% of foreign companies stated that the tax burden does not create barriers to conducting export operations from Uzbekistan, reinforcing the country’s image as an emerging International IT Hub.

To support foreign investors, Uzbekistan has introduced special mechanisms – the IT Visa and IT Card – which allow multiple entries for up to three years, with the option to extend without leaving the country. These are available to IT professionals with an annual income of at least $30,000. Holders of these statuses enjoy access to healthcare and education services under the same terms as Uzbek citizens, can move freely within the country without additional registration, and may purchase property without restrictions.

Areas for Further Improvement

At the same time, respondents identified areas where further improvements are expected. Specifically, 44% of companies and 41% of specialists emphasized the need to improve the availability and efficiency of financial and banking services. Simplifying procedures for obtaining residency permits remains a relevant issue for 35% of specialists, particularly those planning long-term stays.

Use of the IT Card also requires more attention: 78% of respondents reported they had not yet used it in practice, while more than half of users noted the need to expand its functionality and enhance awareness among public officials, banks, and notarial institutions (73%).

Additional areas for improvement, as noted by respondents, include the rental housing market (53%), equitable access to medical and educational services (31%), and development of digital infrastructure (36% of specialists and 21% of companies).

The continued high presence of foreign professionals and the absence of significant outflow of qualified talent confirm the effectiveness of current measures. Uzbekistan is demonstrating strong potential to further strengthen its position as one of the leading destinations for international IT relocation in Eurasia.

CERR Public Relations Sector


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