Improving public income remains top economic priority – President Mirziyoyev

Speaking during a high-level meeting on April 24, the president noted that while the economy is showing strong momentum, current results do not yet reflect the full potential of the country.

During a discussion with the governor of Fergana region, Khayrullo Bozorov, the president reflected on the region's recent 10 percent growth, noting that such ambitious goals were the result of a decade of preparation. He stressed that the ultimate objective is for the population to feel the impact of these economic shifts in their daily lives. According to the president, overcoming the current global challenges will lead to unprecedented opportunities for Uzbekistan, provided the nation remains focused on internal efforts rather than relying on external assistance.

The president pointed out that as the country develops, the demands of the people are naturally increasing. Citizens aspire to live in better homes, drive modern vehicles, and provide their children with world-class education. Meeting these expectations requires a "sleeves-rolled" approach from the entire government team. He further highlighted that the ability to increase wages, pensions, and stipends is directly tied to the performance and efficiency of various economic sectors.

Stability and peace were underscored as the fundamental prerequisites for progress. The president noted that public confidence has grown as people begin to see that significant change is possible. However, he cautioned that many sectors are currently operating at only 50 percent of their actual capacity. A strict review of sectoral performance is expected in the coming quarter to ensure that untapped potential is converted into tangible results.

Economic data presented during the meeting revealed that Uzbekistan’s economy grew by 8.7 percent in the first quarter of 2026. Experts have noted that this is a historic high, as first-quarter growth had not exceeded 7 percent since the start of the current reform era. Despite these figures, the president warned against complacency, criticizing those who receive salaries without contributing meaningfully to the nation's progress.

To ensure that economic growth translates into real benefits for businesses and households, the president issued a directive to curb inflation. He set a target to maintain price growth at around 6.5 percent. This is to be achieved by increasing the supply of local products, expanding meat imports, and eliminating logistical bottlenecks that contribute to rising costs. The head of state concluded by calling for national unity and tireless work to guide the country through this complex period of transformation.