The Ministry of Economy and Finance has published its draft budget for 2026, following initial approval in the first reading by the Legislative Chamber.
The consolidated budget is expected to generate over $43.1 bn in revenue, while expenditures are projected at $47.4 bn. The ministry proposes a maximum deficit of $5 bn, equivalent to under 3% of GDP. For the state budget specifically, revenues are set at $30.8 bn and spending at $33.6 bn.
The budget statement emphasises that next year the government plans to continue supporting education, healthcare, social protection and public safety, with a particular focus on enhancing social support for citizens.
The ministry also set a cap of $5 bn on foreign borrowing for 2026, down from $5.5 bn this year. Half of these funds are intended for the state budget and half for investment projects. To limit fiscal risk, the ceiling for new public-private partnership projects with state obligations remains at $6.5 bn.
Regional authorities will receive $1.65 bn in regulatory transfers next year. Of the VAT revenue, 5% will go to Tashkent city, while 20% will be allocated to the regions and Karakalpakstan.
Kursiv also reports that Uzbekistan’s public debt stood at $43.97 bn on October 1.
