IT Park Uzbekistan Recognized as the Best Knowledge Zone in the Asia-Pacific Region at the fDi Intelligence Global Free Zones Awards 2026
2026-10-15 19:20:00 / News of ministry
The award recognizes IT Park Uzbekistan’s efforts to develop a competitive technology ecosystem, attract international companies and investment, and strengthen the country’s digital talent pool. It also highlights Uzbekistan’s broader initiatives in technology education, professional training, and innovation development.
The annual Global Free Zones of the Year Awards recognize economic zones worldwide for effective strategies to attract businesses and investment. In 2026, the awards covered three categories: Industrial Zones, Knowledge Zones, and Rising Stars. The Knowledge Zones category includes areas specializing in information technology, finance, business services, and other high-value-added activities.
Developing Digital Talent for the Global Market
Human capital development remains a key priority in Uzbekistan’s digital transformation. National educational initiatives and training programs offered by IT Park Uzbekistan contribute to preparing a new generation of technology professionals for the international labor market.
According to the latest data from IT Park Uzbekistan, 1.7 million young people have participated in the One Million Uzbek Coders project, while 1.3 million individuals have taken part in the Five Million AI Leaders initiative.
Under a program that reimburses the costs of international IT certifications, 4,926 young professionals have received support. More than 18 billion soums have been allocated to cover expenses for internationally recognized IT certifications and training. A further 3.17 billion soums has been earmarked through the IT-Talents program to support educational institutions whose graduates secure employment with companies exporting IT services.
Other initiatives, including ICT4Girls, startup incubation programs, and national technology competitions, promote entrepreneurship and expand opportunities for young people and women in the technology sector. The development of advanced digital skills is also supported by 20 artificial intelligence laboratories established at higher education institutions.
Together, these initiatives reflect cooperation between IT Park Uzbekistan and national institutions to strengthen digital education, train qualified professionals, and establish a sustainable talent pipeline for the technology sector. Education and human capital development were also key elements of IT Park Uzbekistan’s submission for the international award.
Expanding Uzbekistan’s Presence in the Global Technology Market
IT Park Uzbekistan continues to strengthen the country’s position as an emerging technology and outsourcing hub. Its ecosystem now includes more than 4,100 resident companies, of which over 1,200 have foreign participation. These companies employ more than 56,000 professionals, contributing to job creation and the development of the country’s technology sector.
With more than 1,100 exporting companies serving 102 countries, Uzbekistan is further integrating into international technology markets.
According to the latest data from IT Park Uzbekistan, exports of information and communication technology (ICT) services have exceeded USD 1.1 billion, reflecting the expansion of the country’s international business activities.
Competitive tax incentives, developing infrastructure, and international partnerships continue to support the attraction of foreign technology companies and create opportunities for export-oriented businesses.
International Recognition and Future Development
Uzbekistan’s technology ecosystem is receiving growing international recognition. In the StartupBlink Global Startup Ecosystem Index 2026, Uzbekistan was named “Country of the Year 2026” and ranked as the world’s fastest-growing startup ecosystem, with a growth rate of 227.3%. Over two years, the country climbed 31 places to reach 79th in the global rankings, while Tashkent ranked 229th among startup cities worldwide.
According to Dealroom data, the estimated total value of Uzbekistan’s startup ecosystem reached USD 4.3 billion in 2026, reflecting growth in technological entrepreneurship and investment activity.
The recognition by fDi Intelligence marks another milestone in Uzbekistan’s efforts to develop an internationally competitive technology sector. These efforts are supported by investment-friendly policies, the development of digital infrastructure, and the availability of qualified technology professionals.