Following a series of sweeping reforms to modernise its cultural and artistic landscape, Uzbekistan is turning its focus toward unlocking the full potential of its creative economy.
Home to a rich and diverse heritage, the country is already host to 14,000 creative enterprises employing nearly 100,000 people. Over the next five years, the government aims to double the sector’s output and increase its contribution to the national GDP to 5%.
The foundation for this expansion was laid last year with the adoption of legislation regulating the creative sector. Uzbekistan also hosted the fourth World Conference on Creative Economy in Tashkent, marking its growing prominence in global cultural dialogue. Partnerships have been formed with key international organisations such as UNESCO, UNCTAD, and the World Intellectual Property Organization, as well as with countries including France, Italy, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia and Qatar.
Craftsmanship to Anchor New Educational and Cultural Platforms
Artisanal crafts remain one of the most significant pillars of Uzbekistan’s creative industries. A series of new proposals were recently reviewed to advance this sector further.
One notable project is a joint initiative with the Royal Foundation of the United Kingdom to establish an academic platform in Tashkent. The centre will offer master’s programmes, conduct applied research and publish educational materials. In time, over 3,000 talented craftspeople are expected to be integrated into this platform, which is set to evolve into a full-fledged school of applied arts.
Bukhara, already a UNESCO Creative City for Crafts and Folk Art since 2023, serves as a vibrant example. The ancient city is home to 2,000 artisans working across 36 disciplines. Later this year, between September and November, Bukhara will host its first-ever Biennale of Contemporary Art, bringing together 70 renowned artists from 40 countries.
Karakalpakstan to Become Hub for Artisan Education and Innovation
Karakalpakstan, another region with strong cultural roots, is rapidly emerging as a key player in creative tourism. Around 2,000 young people in the region are already engaged in traditional crafts, and many more are keen to acquire artisanal skills.
To support this growing interest, the government plans to transform the Istiklol Park in Nukus into a creative cluster. Central to this project is the establishment of the Aral School, a dedicated educational space for craftsmen and designers. The school will blend traditional knowledge with modern design principles and serve as a launchpad for future talent in the region.
Authorities have been instructed to ensure the proposals are implemented to a high standard and that all planned activities are carried out efficiently and with strong organisational oversight.
