Uzbekistan will legalize the use of stablecoins for payments starting in January 2026

Uzbekistan plans to legalize the use of stablecoins as a means of payment starting in January of next year, in order to boost its fintech ecosystem and accelerate innovation.

Starting January 1, 2026, Uzbekistan will take a significant step toward financial modernization when stablecoins are officially recognized as a legal payment method under a new regulatory framework. However, this legislation not only regulates the use of these digital currencies but also paves the way for a more integrated economy incorporating emerging technologies. 

In parallel, Uzbekistan's new regulations will allow the issuance of shares and bonds in tokenized form, that is, within the blockchain, as a strategic move to attract foreign capital and stimulate technological innovation within the country.

A firm step towards modernization in Uzbekistan

La resolution The presidential decree signed in November, which places stablecoins under the country's legal framework, marks the beginning of a new era for Uzbekistan. From January 1, 2026, these digital currencies with stable value can be used as a means of payment within a special legal regime designed to ensure security and transparency. The National Agency for Prospect Projects, in collaboration with the Central Bank, will define the procedures and oversee the implementation of a regulatory sandbox that will allow for experimentation with blockchain-based payment systems. 

Furthermore, this legislation also authorizes local companies to issue shares and bonds in digital format, which can be traded on authorized markets. This move aims to accelerate the digitization of financial assets and expand the options available to investors within the country. In parallel, the government established a $50 million fund to support the growth of fintech companies, with the goal of consolidating around 200 active companies in this sector in the coming years.

With these initiatives, Uzbekistan aims to modernize its financial infrastructure and position itself as an attractive destination for international investment. 

While other countries in the region, such as Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, are developing their own digital currency regulations, Uzbekistan has chosen to build a robust model that inspires trust and facilitates the adoption of new technologies. Its approach aligns with that of leading nations in financial innovation, such as Japan, Switzerland, and Singapore, which have made regulation the foundation for the development of the digital ecosystem.

Central Asia is moving towards digitalization

Uzbekistan's move toward legalizing stablecoin payments reflects a growing trend in Central Asia. In the region, countries such as Kyrgyzstan They have introduced gold-backed stablecoins pegged to the dollar, while Kazakhstan It has adopted regulations for digital currencies while promoting cryptocurrency mining. 

For its part, Turkmenistan It has authorized both cryptocurrency mining and cryptocurrency trading. All these moves demonstrate a collective interest among the region's economies in integrating into the global digital industry, with a focus on establishing clear regulatory frameworks that foster innovation and investment.

In this context, Uzbekistan It joins the trend with an initiative that goes beyond technological implementation. By authorizing the use of stablecoins for payments and promoting the issuance of tokenized securities, the country aims to attract significant foreign capital. Government projections suggest the possibility of attracting up to one billion dollars within five years. Furthermore, the development of an open banking system promises to efficiently connect banks, fintechs, and payment processors, facilitating financial inclusion and optimizing transactions for users.

In the international context, Uzbekistan seeks to position itself alongside established jurisdictions such as the United Kingdom and Hong Kong, where stablecoins operate under solid and defined regulations.

Uzbekistan embraces the digital age

Uzbekistan's decision to legalize stablecoin payments and open the door to the tokenization of financial assets is more than just a regulatory adjustment. For industry experts, it's a declaration of intent. The country seeks to position itself as a regional leader in innovation and attract foreign investment within a robust institutional framework. 

By adopting international standards and joining the list of countries that already regulate stablecoins, Uzbekistan demonstrates its readiness to move toward a digital economy. This openness not only addresses technological aspects but also reflects a strategy designed to boost competitiveness and financial inclusion in an increasingly digital global context.

Aware that the boundaries of the financial sector are being redrawn, the country has decided to position itself as a key player in this new era. Uzbekistan's vision is to be a leader in the financial transformation already underway, ensuring its economy is ready for the challenges and opportunities of the digital future.