Apple Pay and Google Pay closer to launch in Uzbekistan as government plans to reform personal data law

Under the current law, companies are prohibited from storing user data on cloud servers located abroad, which has prevented global payment systems from operating in the country.

As it was previously reported, Apple Pay and Google Pay are preparing to enter the Uzbek market. On 6 November, following the conclusion of his official meetings in Washington, President Mirziyoyev met with representatives of American companies, investment funds, and financial institutions.

He noted that major US tech firms, including Google, Meta, and Nvidia, have expressed interest in joint projects in the fields of IT, artificial intelligence, and digitalization.

“There are issues related to the storage of personal data and the regulation of digital platforms. Together with our American partners, we are finalizing updates to the legislation. This will create opportunities for the launch of global payment systems such as Apple Pay and Google Pay, as well as for the establishment of a digital academy and a network of startup hubs,” the president said.

Negotiations were held last week with Google representatives regarding the introduction of Google Pay in Uzbekistan. However, no Apple representatives were reported to have attended the meeting with Mirziyoyev.

In October 2024, the government approved a package of measures aimed at “effectively utilizing Uzbekistan’s tourism potential.” The Tourism Committee, the Central Bank, and the Ministry of Digital Technologies were tasked with holding talks with international payment providers – including Alipay, Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, and Unipay – to integrate them into Uzbekistan’s financial systems.