What Factors Decide Future of Uzbekistan’s PPP Expansion
At the III Uzbekistan PPP Roundtable, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) outlined a clear message: Uzbekistan’s public–private partnership framework has matured, and the next phase must focus on scaling real projects.
Speaking at the event, Huseyin Ozhan, Managing Director for Central Asia and Mongolia at the EBRD, emphasized that the forum is no longer «just another discussion platform,» but «an accelerator of progress» — a signal that Uzbekistan is transitioning from structural reforms to concrete implementation.
A mature PPP foundation — and a growing pipeline
According to Ozhan, Uzbekistan has already completed the most complex stage of PPP reforms:
- Robust legal base
- Strengthened institutions
- A large and emerging pipeline, backed by the Uzbekistan PPP Project Development Facility
With these elements in place, he noted, «the next phase is about scaling.» That means deeper project preparation, predictable rules, and consistently balanced risk allocation to maintain investor confidence.
Three steps to sustain momentum
Ozhan identified three decisive factors that will determine whether Uzbekistan can expand PPP delivery in the coming years:
1. Consistency and predictability
Investors respond to stability. Uzbekistan already has strong pillars — the PPP Law, regulations, and transparent procurement. Preserving their credibility is essential to reinforce trust among local and international investors.
2. Quality project preparation
«Well-structured, data-driven projects attract serious business,» Ozhan said. Strengthening feasibility studies, environmental and social assessments, and early market sounding will make PPPs more competitive — and bankable.
3. Sustainability and innovation
The future of PPPs is green. Uzbekistan’s shift toward climate-aligned infrastructure is already visible through projects like the 200 MW solar plant with battery storage, supported by the EBRD and partners. Aligning PPPs with ESG principles, Ozhan noted, increases both resilience and investor appetite.
Uzbekistan enters the scaling phase
Ozhan concluded that Uzbekistan now demonstrates the combination needed for successful PPP expansion: determined leadership, sound policy, and strong international collaboration. With these elements, he said, the country can turn its infrastructure ambitions into tangible results.
