Uzbekistan Targets AI and IT Services for Economic Growth

Uzbekistan views artificial intelligence and IT services as one of the main directions for economic development. The country's goal is to increase exports from this sector to $5 billion by 2030 and strengthen its positions in the international market.

According to Sherzod Shermatov, Minister of Digital Technologies, the sector has grown rapidly in recent years. If IT exports in 2017 did not even reach $1 million annually, today this figure is approaching almost $1 billion. According to the minister, the next stage will depend on qualified personnel, investments, and the introduction of artificial intelligence in business processes.

The country is seeking to transition to high-value digital services. In this process, Uzbekistan sees significant advantages in its young population and widespread internet access. The country has 9.6 million young people, and internet accessibility reaches 89%. The government is attempting to attract foreign companies to open service centers in Uzbekistan and employ local staff. Such a model will reduce companies' costs and facilitate their entry into new markets.

Special attention is being paid to infrastructure and energy. Uzbekistan plans to use electricity for artificial intelligence data center services as well. Investors are already provided with tax benefits, cheap electricity, and exemptions from customs duties on equipment imports.

According to experts, the most realistic path for Uzbekistan is not direct competition with global technology giants, but rather the development of specific AI applications and services.

Source: Yahoo Finance