Tashkent hosted the "FinTech & Banking 2024" forum, which served as a platform for discussing the latest trends and innovative practices in Uzbekistan’s fintech sector. The forum offered fresh insights into the market by examining the opportunities and challenges shaping its transformation. The event brought together key industry stakeholders, including regulators, fintech companies, banks, financial institutions, and other interested parties.
One of the key sessions, titled “Sustainable FinTech: How Regulatory Frameworks Impact the FinTech Ecosystem,” featured discussions on establishing an effective environment for innovators and the role of governmental projects in the development of the fintech sector. A notable speaker was Akbar Gulyamov, Project Director of Enterprise Uzbekistan, who presented Uzbekistan’s strategic approach to establishing a specialized regulatory zone aimed at supporting startups and attracting international companies. He highlighted the country’s strategic initiatives in digital technologies, emphasizing its focus on creating a robust framework for fintech innovation.
The session also attended by Asel Isatayeva, Vice President of Business Development at the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC), Tahir Tolibov, Head of the Financial Technologies Department of the Central Bank of Azerbaijan, and other distinguished experts. Panelists shared their experiences working with regulatory “sandboxes”, promoting fintech innovations, and advancing government support for the digital economy. They explored approaches to fostering favorable conditions for startups across Central Asian countries, with a particular focus on enhancing intellectual property protection and streamlining financial operations for companies.
The initiatives outlined at the forum — including the creation of a regulatory zone and the adoption of innovations in the digital economy — highlight Uzbekistan’s aspirations to strengthen its position on the global stage and become a key player in the IT and financial technology sectors. The event demonstrated that the country is prepared for further development and remains open to collaboration with international partners, offering new opportunities for growth and investment in the region.
