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The volume of Uzbekistan’s unobserved economy reached 265.5 trillion UZS from January to June 2025, making up 32.9% of the country’s GDP, according to the National Statistics Agency.

The agency estimates that 201.3 trillion UZS of gross value added came from household and individual activities. An additional 64.3 trillion UZS was contributed by the shadow economy.

In agriculture, forestry and fisheries, unobserved activity accounted for 75% of gross value added. The share was 36% in construction and 35% in the services sector. In industry, the shadow economy’s contribution was estimated at 10.5%.

The unobserved economy includes all economic activity...

Liverpool recorded a 3-1 win over Yokohama F. Marinos in a pre-season friendly at Nissan Stadium in Japan. The Premier League side came from behind to take control in the second half following a goalless first period.

Uenaka Opens the Scoring for Yokohama

After a first half without goals, Yokohama took the lead in the 57th minute. A sequence on the left wing ended with Asahi Uenaka receiving a pass from Kato before sending a low shot into the far corner from inside the area.

Asahi Uenaka | Yokohama F. Marinos 1-0 Liverpool

Liverpool concedes...

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has criticised the underperformance of Uzbekistan’s trade advisors in several key diplomatic missions, citing their limited contribution to boosting fruit and vegetable exports to countries such as the United Kingdom, Italy, Sweden and Japan.

At a recent government meeting on the state of agro-export development, the president noted that efforts by diplomatic representatives in these countries have failed to meet expectations. As a result, Uzbekistan’s agricultural exports to not only these markets but also to India and Qatar have lagged behind projections.

Uzbekistan’s agricultural exports currently rely heavily on neighbouring and regional markets, with Russia, Pakistan...

A new national survey conducted by the Ijtimoiy Fikr Centre reveals that public awareness in Uzbekistan of human trafficking remains high, with most citizens recognising the severity of the issue and expressing confidence in the country’s preventive efforts.

The poll, based on multi-year monitoring, indicates that 61.3% of respondents in 2025 said they were well aware of human trafficking, compared to 62.8% in 2022. Another 29.5% reported partial awareness, suggesting growing interest but also the risk of misinformation if not paired with accurate education.

Media Plays Central Role in Awareness

Television remains the leading source of information for...

Uzbek fighter Bogdan Guskov has secured a spot among the top 10 UFC light heavyweights after a dominant performance in Abu Dhabi.

The updated rankings, published on the UFC’s official website, place Guskov in 10th position — a rise of three places — following his emphatic victory over Russia’s Nikita Krylov on July 26.

The bout ended in the first round, with Guskov claiming a technical knockout and extending his streak to three consecutive early finishes. His professional record now stands at 18 wins, 15 of which came by knockout, with just three defeats.

The result proved costly for...

Uzbekistan’s information and communications technology (ICT) sector is witnessing steady growth as the country intensifies efforts to integrate digital tools into its economy. According to a new UNIDO report, Uzbekistan continues to make strides in building a competitive ICT industry, driven by government-backed initiatives and rising investor interest.

As part of a broader regional trend across Central and South Asia, Uzbekistan’s digital sector has become a significant contributor to economic transformation. Between 2021 and 2023, the country has seen an uptick in digital service exports and has actively participated in regional initiatives to improve digital connectivity and skill-building.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has congratulated the people of Uzbekistan on People’s Friendship Day, using the occasion to pay tribute to the country’s multicultural society and reaffirm the state’s commitment to unity and inclusion.

In his address, the president acknowledged the more than 130 ethnic communities living in Uzbekistan, describing them as «a single, united family.» He extended his heartfelt congratulations and respect to citizens of all backgrounds, expressing «sincere wishes for peace and wellbeing.»

Mirziyoyev stressed that the country’s ethnic diversity, deeply rooted in its history, is gaining renewed importance in the era of New Uzbekistan.

At the final U.S. concert of Coldplay’s Music of the Spheres tour, global football icon Lionel Messi and his wife Antonela Roccuzzo became the unexpected stars of the evening, thanks to the band’s playful kiss cam. The event took place at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Sunday, July 27.

As the camera turned to the couple, Coldplay’s frontman Chris Martin serenaded them from the stage.

«Well, Lio, my beautiful brother, you and your wife are looking so fine. Thanks for coming today to see our band play, the No. 1 sportsperson of all...

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has revised upward its economic growth forecast for the Middle East and Central Asia region, now expecting a 3.4% expansion in 2025, up from 2.4% in 2024.

Projection for 2026 is slightly higher at 3.5%. The updated figures, released in the IMF’s July 2025 World Economic Outlook Update, reflect a broader global trend of tentative resilience, shaped largely by shifting trade policies, a softer US dollar, and improved financial conditions.

Global Context Supports Regional Momentum

The IMF attributes part of the regional growth upgrade to wider global developments, particularly the unexpected easing of...

A powerful earthquake measuring 8.8 in magnitude struck off the coast of Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula on July 30, triggering tsunami warnings and evacuations across the Pacific Rim. The shallow quake sent four-metre waves crashing into parts of Kamchatka and led to alerts in Japan, Hawaii and as far afield as Ecuador, Reuters reports.

Initial tremors caused moderate structural damage in the remote Russian region, with minor injuries reported. Kamchatka Governor Vladimir Solodov described it as the most powerful seismic event in decades, a sentiment echoed by Russian geophysicists who said it was the strongest since 1952.

The quake’s epicentre...

Another dry and hot day is expected across Uzbekistan today, with no rainfall anticipated in most regions. Winds will blow at speeds of 7 to 12 metres per second, with gusts reaching 13 to 18 m/s in some areas, accompanied by blowing dust. Daytime temperatures will range from 32 to 37°C.

In the capital, Tashkent, conditions will also remain dry. Winds are forecast at 5 to 10 m/s, with daytime temperatures between 34 and 36°C.

However, in the mountainous regions, certain areas may experience brief showers and thunderstorms. Flash floods and mudslides are possible in the foothill and mountain...

Several banks have updated the rates for exchanging foreign currencies for UZS on July 30. This article contains information about the most favorable rates.

Here are Central Bank Reference Rates to exchange USD, EUR, GBP, CHF, JPY, or KZT into soums:

Several banks offer best rates to exchange USD, EUR, GBP, CHF, JPY, or KZT into soums:

Financial institutions may change the value of currencies...

On July 26, a 33-year-old singer Zeboyi Jahon, whose real name was Zebiniso Nosirova, was found dead in her home in Taylak district of Samarkand. Preliminary reports suggest that her husband may have been involved in the incident, according to a report aired by Millar on Milliy TV.

According to initial information, the man had arrived at the home of his former spouse, reportedly to visit their children. A dispute broke out between them, which allegedly escalated to physical violence, ending in the woman being strangled. Zeboyi Jahon died at the scene from her injuries.

Chinese companies have put forward a proposal to establish a $500 mln investment fund aimed at supporting joint ventures in Uzbekistan.

The initiative was discussed during a meeting between members of the Chinese Entrepreneurs Association and Uzbekistan’s First Deputy Minister of Mining and Geology, Otabekjon Nasritdinkhodjaev.

The proposed fund is part of a broader cooperation framework that includes joint research initiatives, the creation of expert working groups and the alignment of environmental standards between the two countries. Partners from China also outlined plans to develop specialist training programmes and expand green financing options, all of which received backing from...

On July 24, 1975, Giorgio Armani quietly founded what would become one of the most influential fashion houses in the world. From a modest Milan launch, the Armani brand redefined modern luxury with its signature blend of Italian craftsmanship and minimalistic sophistication. Now, 50 years on, the label is marking its golden jubilee with a series of celebratory events that honour its heritage while signalling its next evolution.

Legacy Meets Technology: Launch of Armani/Archivio

The anniversary celebrations begin on August 30, during the Venice Film Festival, where Armani will unveil «Armani/Archivio», a digital archive chronicling the brand’s journey...

Disney has officially unveiled the first trailer for Avatar: Fire and Ash, the highly anticipated third instalment in James Cameron’s epic saga. The teaser had previously leaked online after being shown exclusively in cinemas ahead of Fantastic Four: First Steps. Now publicly released, the footage invites audiences back to Pandora and reveals two new clans — the sky-roaming Wind Traders and the fierce, flame-wielding Ash People.

James Cameron first offered a glimpse of the Ash clan during the 2024 D23 Expo, where he described the soot-covered tribe as terrifying and emotionally complex.

«We’re showing more of...

Arnold Schwarzenegger could once again step into the role of Dutch from Predator, this time in a live-action capacity, following his recent animated cameo and renewed discussions with director Dan Trachtenberg.

During the Predator: Badlands panel at San Diego Comic-Con, Trachtenberg hinted that plans are in motion to bring back Schwarzenegger’s iconic character. «I’m cooking up stuff for that guy,» the director told the Hall H crowd, referring to a recent breakfast meeting he had with the actor and former California governor.

Dutch’s Legacy in the Predator Universe

Schwarzenegger originally portrayed Major Alan ‘Dutch’ Schaefer in John McTiernan’s...

With speculation swirling around Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17 series, one key question has drawn the most attention — when will the new models officially launch?

While various leaks have surfaced regarding colours, display tweaks and camera upgrades, everything hinges on Apple’s announcement. Once the iPhone 17 lineup, expected to include the standard model, the 17 Air, Pro and Pro Max, is officially revealed, all other questions should be clarified, including pricing, which remains uncertain due to potential tariff concerns.

Possible Announcement and Launch Timeline

Judging by Apple’s release history, the unveiling will most likely take place in early...

As ChatGPT increasingly becomes a go-to source for emotional support, OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has raised the alarm about a major gap in legal privacy protections, Business Insider reports. Speaking on a podcast with Theo Von, Altman stressed that conversations with the AI chatbot do not carry the same legal confidentiality as discussions with licensed professionals such as doctors, therapists or lawyers.

Privacy Concerns as AI Becomes Emotional Outlet

Altman pointed out that users often disclose highly personal and sensitive information to ChatGPT, treating it as a surrogate therapist or life coach. However, unlike traditional therapy sessions, these...

The Russian government has reintroduced a comprehensive ban on petrol exports, which will remain in force until August 31, 2025. The measure, formalised by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin on July 28, applies to all fuel producers, including those directly refining oil products.

According to official statements, the decision was made to ensure stability in the domestic fuel market during a period of heightened seasonal demand, especially linked to summer travel and agricultural work across the country.

The renewed embargo follows a sharp rise in domestic petrol prices. On July 24, the price of AI-95 petrol on the St Petersburg...

Andijan region is moving ahead with ambitious reforms aimed at transforming its economic landscape and improving quality of life for residents.

As part of this year’s development targets, authorities plan to attract $3.1 bn in investments, reach $1.5 bn in export revenue, create 305,000 jobs and lift over 32,000 families out of poverty.

Since the beginning of the year, Andijan has launched new industrial facilities with a combined value of $1 bn. In addition, 344 trade and service centres have opened across the region, supporting business growth and community access. Projects worth $2.5 bn are now underway, and in...

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...

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev has reviewed a set of proposals aimed at modernising how Uzbekistan manages its cultural and artistic sectors, with special attention to promoting traditional craftsmanship.

Plans include revising funding strategies for the cultural sphere and adopting advanced international practices.

One key direction is the introduction of public-private partnership models in cultural centres. Support will also be extended to startup initiatives that promote creative ideas. The government aims to encourage the production of local historical, scientific and animated content that shapes the Uzbekistan brand and fosters patriotism, especially among the youth.

The President called for a gradual introduction...

Weather conditions across Uzbekistan on July 29 are forecast to remain dry and warm, with strong winds expected in several regions. According to the national meteorological service, daytime temperatures will range between 32 and 37°C in most areas. Wind speeds are predicted at 7 to 12 metres per second, with occasional gusts reaching 13 to 18 m/s, potentially accompanied by drifting dust in open terrain.

In Tashkent, the capital, no rainfall is expected. Wind speeds will be slightly calmer, estimated at 5 to 10 m/s, while daytime temperatures are forecast between 34 and 36°C.

Mountain regions are also expected...