Central Bank reports significant rise in foreign currency transactions by individuals

During the first quarter of the current year, the volume of foreign currency sold by the population to commercial banks reached $6 billion. According to a report from the Central Bank of Uzbekistan, this represents a 1.5–fold increase compared to the $4.1 billion recorded during the same period in 2025.

Photo: Kun.uz

Parallel to the rise in sales, there was also a notable increase in foreign currency purchases by individuals. Citizens bought $3.2 billion in the first quarter, marking a 31% rise compared to the corresponding months of the previous year.

The Central Bank identified international money transfers as the primary driver behind the increased supply of foreign currency. During the period under review, the volume of remittances entering the country amounted to $3.8 billion, an increase of 13% or $433 million compared to 2025. These transfers remain the fundamental source of foreign currency income for the general population.

While inflows saw a significant uptick, the volume of funds sent abroad via international transfer systems decreased. Approximately $604 million was transferred out of the country, which is $39 million less than the amount recorded in the first quarter of 2025. This shift reflects a strengthening of the domestic currency supply and a more robust inflow of capital from abroad.