Uzbekistan’s Startups Could Give the US an Edge in Central Asia | Opinion
The next chapter of competition with China and Russia may not be written in military bases but in startup incubators and venture funds.
Uzbekistan's tech scene is booming, attracting investors and entrepreneurs alike. This growth is significant, especially for the United States, which seeks to establish presence in Central Asia without becoming entangled in Russian surveillance or Chinese AI dominance. Uzum, a leading digital ecosystem, recently achieved a $2.3 billion pre-money valuation, proving the potential of Uzbekistan's startups.
IT Park Uzbekistan, a technology hub, has grown rapidly, hosting over 2,800 companies that export to 90 countries. As a result, Tashkent, Uzbekistan's capital, became the fastest-growing startup city in Central Asia. The venture market in Uzbekistan surged from $69.5 million in 2024 to $329 million in 2025, attracting companies like EPAM and First Line that export to international markets.
Uzbekistan's success in creating a scalable technology business model challenges traditional perceptions and signals a shift in regional dynamics.
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