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Uzbekistan Introduces New Rules for E-Commerce Platforms

The Cabinet of Ministers of Uzbekistan has issued a new decision titled “On Measures to Further Develop the E-Commerce Sector in Uzbekistan”, introducing updated regulations for e-commerce operators, including electronic trading platforms, order aggregators, and digital streaming service providers. Under the new regulations, only legal entities registered as residents of Uzbekistan can operate as e-commerce providers. This includes platforms that facilitate electronic transactions, such as marketplaces, aggregators, and streaming services. Entities or individual entrepreneurs that merely provide information about goods, services, or digital products without engaging in electronic contracts or transactions are not classified as e-commerce operators under these rules. From July 1, 2025, e-commerce operators in Uzbekistan must adhere to the following conditions: Legal Registration: Operators must be registered as legal entities in Uzbekistan. Compliance with Laws: Operators are required to follow legislation related to e-commerce, personal data protection, copyright, consumer rights, and advertising. Transparency: Upon request, they must provide information about their activities to authorized bodies free of charge. Retail Trade Rules: Operators must comply with retail trade regulations. Operational Standards: They must maintain an information system capable of ensuring the effective provision of services to e-commerce participants. These new measures are part of Uzbekistan’s broader efforts to regulate and encourage growth in its rapidly expanding e-commerce sector. Meanwhile, The Times of Central Asia previously reported that Russian e-commerce giant Wildberries is planning to enter the Tajikistan and Turkmenistan markets. Wildberries currently operates in Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Russia, offering a wide range of products, including clothing, footwear, electronics, and home furnishings. By setting clear rules for e-commerce operators, Uzbekistan aims to create a more structured and reliable digital marketplace, ensuring transparency, consumer protection, and compliance with international standards.

Government Digitalization Digital Technologies Digital Service AI E-Government

Digital Kazakhstan: Pioneering E-Government and AI Innovations Amid New Challenges

Kazakhstan has solidified its position as a global leader in digital transformation, ranking among the top 25 countries in e-government development and achieving significant milestones in IT innovation. After nearly two decades of digitalization efforts, the country is now aiming to surpass the most advanced nations. The concept of e-government in Kazakhstan was first announced in former President Nursultan Nazarbayev’s address on March 19, 2004. That same year, a program for the establishment of e-government was approved, and the eGov.kz web portal was launched in 2006. Initially, the platform primarily provided informational services. The second phase of e-government (2007–2008) introduced interactive services, allowing citizens to request certificates, submit inquiries to government bodies, and track their progress online. A key milestone was the establishment of Citizen Service Centers on January 5, 2007. Before the digital era, obtaining documents was a lengthy and cumbersome process, plagued by long queues and widespread corruption. In 2024, digitalization in Kazakhstan reached new heights. The government reports that 92% of public services are now provided electronically. Innovations such as biometric identification and QR signatures have simplified access, with over eight million QR code signatures registered and more than 18 million identifications conducted through the Digital ID system this year, according to Kanat Tuleushin, the First Vice-Minister of the Ministry of Digital Development, Innovation, and Aerospace Industry (MCRIAP). The modernization of the e-government platform is ongoing, with plans to transition to the third version of eGov. Additionally, IT services from Kazakhstan are now exported to 86 countries, with key markets including Russia, Ireland, Mexico, the United States, and Singapore. A central focus of the government strategy is the development of artificial intelligence (AI). In 2024, a draft law on AI was approved, and a Committee on AI was established to oversee the development of this field in the country. Kazakhstan continues to modernize its e-government platform, with plans to transition to the third version of eGov. The country has also made strides in exporting IT services to 86 countries, including major markets like Russia, Ireland, Mexico, the United States, and Singapore. A key priority for the government is the development of artificial intelligence (AI). In 2024, a draft law on AI was approved, and a dedicated Committee on AI was established to oversee advancements in this area. In the 2024 UN E-Government Development Index (EGDI), Kazakhstan ranked 24th among 193 countries, climbing four spots since the last assessment. The country also secured a place in the global top 10 of the Online Service Index (OSI), which evaluates the accessibility and quality of government-provided online services. South Korea leads the EGDI rankings, while Kazakhstan outpaces many of its regional neighbors, including Armenia (53rd), Russia (56th), Uzbekistan (59th), Kyrgyzstan (89th), and Turkmenistan (172nd). Kazakhstan’s banking sector has also played a pivotal role in driving digital innovation. Major banks now integrate a wide range of public and business services into their apps. For example, Halyk Bank offers over 60 services, Kaspi.kz provides 40, Bank CenterCredit more than 30, and Freedom...

Digitalization public transport Digital Technologies

You Can Now Pay Your Fare on Tashkent’s Subway with the Palm of Your Hand

The Tashkent subway has introduced a pilot project for the “MyID Palm” fare payment system, which uses biometric technology to identify passengers by the unique vein pattern in their palms. This innovative system was developed by local scientists in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport, the payment service “ATTO,” and Octobank. It marks a significant advancement in biometric identification for public transportation. The system relies on palm vein scanners to read each passenger's unique vein pattern. According to the developers, this data is securely protected against unauthorized access and forgery. The goal of the technology is to enhance both security and convenience in fare payments. Currently, “MyID Palm” devices have been installed at 12 stations along the Chilanzar line, where they are operating in test mode. Plans are underway to expand this system to all metro stations in Tashkent. To use the service, passengers need an “ATTO” transportation card and the associated mobile application to create a biometric profile. The activation process involves scanning their palm at a designated info kiosk located at one of the stations equipped with the technology. Testing of the palm payment system began in late October 2023, with Druzhba Narodov station becoming the first to enable this feature. Earlier, in September 2023, the Tashkent subway began testing a Face ID payment system, which allows passengers to pay their fare using facial recognition technology. These advancements signal a move toward a more modernized and user-friendly public transportation system in Uzbekistan's capital, with both residents and visitors benefiting from the improved efficiency and security of biometric payment solutions.

Russia Tourism Legislation Digitalization visas Digital Service

Citizens of Turkmenistan Can Apply for Simplified Entry to Russia

Citizens of Turkmenistan are now eligible to apply for a single-entry electronic visa (e-visa) to travel to Russia. This opportunity became available following an order by Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, which expanded the list of countries eligible for simplified entry. The list now includes 64 countries, with Turkmenistan among the latest additions. The e-visa allows entry to Russia for purposes such as tourism, business, humanitarian activities, or visiting relatives and friends. The application process is conducted online through the official portal of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Notably, applicants are not required to provide invitations, hotel bookings, or additional documentation justifying the purpose of their travel.

Science Digitalization Digital Technologies AI

Uzbekistan Sets Sights on $1.5 Billion AI Industry by 2030

Uzbekistan’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations has hosted a presentation at the UN headquarters in New York, unveiling the country’s strategy for developing artificial intelligence (AI) technologies by 2030. The event, organized in collaboration with the UN Counter-Terrorism Office and Interpol, drew attendance from UN officials, experts, and members of the diplomatic corps accredited in New York. Ambitious AI Goals Participants were introduced to the key directions outlined in Uzbekistan’s AI Strategy, along with the country’s ongoing reforms and achievements in the field. Emphasis was placed on President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s commitment to advancing information technologies and fostering innovation. The presentation highlighted Uzbekistan’s plans to grow its AI-based software products and services sector to $1.5 billion by 2030. This strategy also includes establishing ten scientific laboratories specializing in AI and strengthening the regulatory framework to support technological advancements. Leadership in Responsible AI As previously reported by The Times of Central Asia, Uzbekistan leads Central Asia in responsibly adopting AI, according to the Global Center on AI Governance. The nation’s AI initiatives prioritize cultural and linguistic diversity, foster international partnerships, enhance public sector skills, and promote transparency.

Digital Service National Bank Digitalization Currency Finance

Kyrgyzstan Eyes Digital Currency to Modernize Financial System

The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic (NBKR) has announced plans to launch a digital national currency, the digital som. The financial regulator expects the initiative to bolster the country’s financial sector and enhance public administration. New Opportunities The NBKR envisions the digital som transforming Kyrgyzstan’s financial landscape and increasing cashless transactions. One major advantage is improved control over budget spending. Additionally, the digital currency will allow payments even in areas without Internet access - crucial for remote regions with limited connectivity. Using simple technologies such as QR codes and mobile applications, citizens will be able to make quick and convenient payments for goods and services. “The monopoly of central banks to issue money is already ending. Anyone with a computer can create cryptocurrencies and various coins. We are keeping pace with this trend,” noted Akylbek Japarov, Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers. He added that the Ministry of Finance plans to issue digital currency by 2025, allocating up to 27 billion KGS ($314 million) for digital bonds, treasury bills, and gold-backed coins. Under the government’s plan, the digital som will coexist with traditional cash and non-cash currencies. Authorities have devised mechanisms to facilitate its integration into the financial market. Commercial banks connected to the system will receive digital soms in their digital wallets, while equivalent amounts will be debited from their accounts with the National Bank. Transfers of digital soms between individuals will occur via existing banking infrastructure. Digital Stability The NBKR aims to integrate the digital som into the financial system by the end of 2026, with prototype testing scheduled for early 2025. Experts highlight the potential benefits despite some challenges. Economist Nurgul Akimova explained to Times of Central Asia that the Central Bank’s digital currency will feature robust security measures, including advanced cryptography to prevent fraud and ensure confidentiality. State control over issuance will ensure stability and reliability, distinguishing it from electronic money, which can be vulnerable to bank bankruptcies. Digital currency also offers new opportunities for public administration, particularly in taxation. Akimova noted that programmable features could automate tax deductions and other payments to the state, fostering trust and simplifying interactions between citizens and the government. “For the digital som to succeed, it must be widely accessible and easy to use, complementing existing financial instruments,” Akimova added. “Drawing on global experience and our unique national context, digital currency could become a universal means of payment for everyone. This marks a step toward a more modern, inclusive, and sustainable financial system in Kyrgyzstan.” Challenges Ahead However, certain hurdles remain. Akimova pointed out that introducing the digital som to international markets could pose difficulties, as cross-border payments in digital currencies will require the approval of other states.