WEF Survey Sees Uzbekistan Growth Continuing in 2026

Uzbekistan is expected to maintain steady economic growth in 2026, but it is unlikely to be the main driver of acceleration in Central Asia, according to a survey of chief economists conducted by the World Economic Forum (WEF).

Experts classified Uzbekistan as one of the countries with «sustained growth.» Higher growth rates are anticipated in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. Kazakhstan, by contrast, is expected to slow down, though it should still grow faster than several comparable economies. Across Central Asia, 59% of respondents forecast moderate growth in 2026, while 25% expect strong growth.

Nearly 80% of economists surveyed believe inflation in Central Asia, including Uzbekistan, will remain moderate next year. Meanwhile, 85% expect monetary policy in the region to stay unchanged, and 88% do not anticipate fiscal policy adjustments.

Economists also assessed the impact of investment in artificial intelligence. Almost 40% said AI’s contribution to economic growth in Central Asia will be limited in the near term. Most expect a noticeable effect from AI to appear no earlier than two to three years, with some predicting it could take four to five years or longer.

The survey was conducted by the World Economic Forum from 19 November to 3 December 2025 and involved 36 chief economists from major international financial institutions, banks, corporations and consulting firms. The results reflect the combined expectations of the economic elite and do not constitute official forecasts by individual organisations.