President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s Aspiring Goals for Uzbekistan’s Growth

At the first session of the Legislative Chamber of Uzbekistan, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev presented a comprehensive evaluation of the government’s achievements over the past five years and unveiled a detailed vision for the next five. This session followed the parliamentary elections, the nomination of Abdulla Aripov as Prime Minister, and the introduction of an action plan for the Cabinet of Ministers for the upcoming five years.

The president began his address by acknowledging the growing responsibilities of the government. He emphasized that current global and domestic complexities demand unprecedented commitment from all levels of the executive branch. With new powers and responsibilities outlined in the updated Constitution, the government is tasked with addressing important areas such as poverty reduction, food security, investment attraction, and environmental sustainability. He stressed that citizens expect tangible outcomes in these domains from the new administration.

Reflections on Achievements                             

President Mirziyoyev highlighted significant progress during his administration’s first term. The economy has doubled in size, surpassing $100 billion, and per capita income has risen to $3,000. Exports have nearly doubled to $25 billion, while foreign investments have increased sixfold, creating 1.5 million high-paying jobs. Foreign exchange reserves now exceed $40 billion, providing a robust financial foundation. In the social sector, preschool enrollment has reached 74%, while higher education enrollment stands at 39%. The establishment of Inson centers across all regions has improved access to over 100 essential social services, reflecting the government’s commitment to inclusive development.

Key Goals for the Next Five Years

Economic Growth and Stability

Central to Mirziyoyev’s vision is maintaining macroeconomic balance while achieving an annual growth rate of 6-7%. Inflation rates are to be kept within 5-6%, and the budget deficit capped at 3% of GDP. Annual lending is expected to increase to $30 billion, reflecting a focus on fostering business growth and innovation. The government aims to attract $100 billion in foreign investment and increase annual exports to $45 billion. This includes raising the share of finished goods in exports to 50%, showcasing Uzbekistan’s shift toward value-added production.

Additionally, the government plans to boost foreign tourist arrivals to 15 million annually, increasing tourism revenue to $5 billion. Initiatives will include expanding infrastructure, promoting cultural heritage, and enhancing Uzbekistan’s international appeal.

The government seeks to formalize the informal economy and stimulate cashless transactions, targeting a 60% share of online payments by 2025. By 2030, GDP is projected to reach $200 billion, with per capita income rising to $5,000 and poverty rates falling to just 5%.

Poverty Reduction and Social Welfare

One of the administration’s flagship initiatives is the “From Poverty to Prosperity” program, which adopts a multidimensional approach to alleviating poverty. The program focuses on critical areas such as education, vocational training, healthcare, and psychological support to uplift the most vulnerable segments of society. By 2025, the government aims to lift 1 million citizens out of poverty. Key measures include allocating 500 billion soums for free education in foreign languages, IT, and vocational skills for children from low-income families, investing 2 trillion soums to upgrade infrastructure in 1,000 socially disadvantaged neighborhoods, and committing 46.5 trillion soums to poverty alleviation programs. President Mirziyoyev emphasized the importance of creating high-paying jobs and fostering an inclusive labor market to ensure that economic growth benefits all citizens.

Strengthening Governance and Parliamentary Oversight

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev underscored the need for improved governance and more robust parliamentary engagement to address implementation challenges and ensure effective oversight of laws. He proposed the establishment of public councils under each parliamentary committee, which would foster collaboration between lawmakers, ministries, and civil society.

The president urged deputies to prioritize creating impactful legislation with clear enforcement mechanisms, strengthening party and factional discipline within the Legislative Chamber, and engaging more actively with constituents beyond merely organizing meetings and addressing complaints. He stressed that legislation must focus on addressing societal challenges. Proposed initiatives include introducing compulsory health insurance, establishing a legal framework for emerging sectors like franchising, capital markets, and artificial intelligence, and expanding support for private education and renewable energy investments. These measures aim to modernize Uzbekistan’s governance while promoting sustainable development and economic diversification.

Energy and Infrastructure Development

Over the past three years, Uzbekistan has made significant strides in renewable energy, commissioning 10 large solar and wind power plants with a combined capacity of 2.7 million kilowatt-hours. Looking ahead, the government plans to double energy efficiency and ensure a stable supply of resources to support industrial growth. Plans include constructing 150,000 modern housing units annually to meet the needs of a population expected to exceed 40 million within five years.

Strengthening the Private Sector

Privatization is a key component of Mirziyoyev’s economic strategy. Over the next five years, the government plans to sell stakes in 2,000 enterprises and 5,000 real estate properties. Shares of 16 major companies will be offered through initial public offerings (IPOs), signaling a commitment to fostering a competitive, market-driven economy. Public-private partnerships worth $30 billion will drive infrastructure development and innovation, with the private sector’s share in the national economy expected to increase to 85%.

President Mirziyoyev’s leadership has been characterized by transparency and engagement. His open-door policies, including public forums and direct interactions with citizens, have fostered trust and inclusivity. Social reforms remain a cornerstone of his administration, with investments in education, healthcare, and social welfare aimed at empowering communities and enhancing quality of life.

The aspiring five-year agenda addresses immediate challenges while setting the stage for long-term prosperity. While achieving these goals will require coordinated efforts and effective implementation, the roadmap reflects Mirziyoyev’s vision of a prosperous, equitable, and forward-looking Uzbekistan. As the new government embarks on this transformative journey, the collective effort of all stakeholders will be crucial in realizing the nation’s aspirations.

Written by: Mr. Khalid Taimur Akram, Executive Director, Pakistan Research Center for a Community with Shared Future (PRCCSF), Islamabad