Digital Bridge Tashkent – Astana: how Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan are building a unified IT market
Cooperation between Uzbekistan and Kazakhstan in high technologies has reached a strategic level. The creation of a unified digital space in Central Asia is now supported not only by intergovernmental agreements but also by real investments, joint startup hubs, and large-scale exports of IT services.
Mutual trust in the IT sector is reflected in active business growth. Currently, 67 companies with Kazakh capital operate in Uzbekistan’s IT Park. In 2025 alone, they created more than 750 jobs. The total volume of service exports between the two countries exceeded $17.6 million, providing employment for 4,600 specialists.
Startups without borders
The key achievement of the year was the launch of the Central Asian Innovation Hubs platform. It gave regional startups access to global markets:
• Global integration: 40 teams completed acceleration programs in Silicon Valley, including Draper University and AlchemistX.
• Investment: Within the Digital Startup Awards, the best projects received funding ranging from $10,000 to $50,000.
• Market exchange: The Kazakhstan Market Entry program enabled 10 Uzbek startups to enter the Kazakh market, while Kazakh projects began active expansion into Uzbekistan.
Technologies of the future: AI and public services
The partnership also covers advanced scientific fields. Joint research in artificial intelligence is being conducted with the AI Institute at Nazarbayev University.
A key milestone in digitalization was a pilot project on cross-border data exchange. In March 2026, a data-sharing system was successfully tested with the support of the UN and the Republic of Korea. In the future, this will enable the creation of a unified intergovernmental public services platform, simplifying life for businesses and tourists in both countries.
Security and connectivity
Operators of both countries (“Uzbektelecom”, “Kazakhtelecom”, and others) have established direct communication channels, ensuring high internet speeds. A joint system for exchanging IMEI codes of mobile devices is also being implemented, which will help prevent the illegal import of electronics.
The integration of 4G and 5G systems in border areas is now being coordinated, eliminating radio interference and ensuring stable connectivity for residents across the region.
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