Decline in Active Enterprises in Uzbekistan
According to recent data from the Statistics Agency, the number of active enterprises in Uzbekistan has seen a significant decline over the past two years. Industrial enterprises have dropped by 40%, while businesses in construction and agriculture have fallen by 39%. As of February 1, 2025, there are 431.5 thousand active enterprises and organizations in the country, representing a 10.7% decrease compared to the previous year and a 24.6% decrease compared to two years ago.
Out of these active entities, 367.3 thousand are entrepreneurial subjects, with the majority being small enterprises and microfirms. The number of entrepreneurial subjects has also decreased over the past two years, with a 12.3% decline compared to the previous year and a 27.6% decrease compared to two years ago.
By economic activity sectors, there have been significant drops in the number of enterprises in various sectors, including industrial, construction, agriculture, trade, transportation, and information and communication. However, there has been a slight increase in enterprises in healthcare and social services.
The business climate in Uzbekistan is also changing, with a shift in business perceptions noted in the Central Bank’s “Business Sentiment Overview.” The survey revealed a decrease in the number of entrepreneurs who felt that the business environment had improved. Issues such as interruptions in utilities supply, rising fuel prices, and difficulties with the tax system were cited as reasons for businesses not operating at full capacity.
Overall, there is a sense of uncertainty among business owners in Uzbekistan, with fewer believing that the economic situation and business environment will improve in the near future. The decreasing number of active enterprises and the challenges faced by businesses highlight the need for policy measures and support to stimulate growth and improve the business climate in the country.
