Kazakh Minister Yersaiyn Nagaspayev reported that major mining companies have invested nearly $315mn in R&D over five years, implementing advanced technologies to increase copper production and improve processing efficiency.

Switzerland has launched a $200mn cooperation program for Central Asia (2026–2029) to boost water and energy security, support sustainable economic growth, and strengthen regional collaboration, with Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan among the main beneficiaries.

Uzbekistan will introduce bi-monthly car-free days starting May 1 and implement a comprehensive air quality response system, including public alerts, remote work options, emission restrictions, and urban dust reduction measures.

Kazakhstan reports slower growth in essential food prices in early 2026, with March inflation easing to 0.3%, as falling vegetable prices, expanded greenhouse production, increased imports, and other stabilisation measures were highlighted at a government meeting chaired by Serik Zhumangarin.

Uzbekistan’s Central Bank official has warned that escalating conflict in the Middle East could drive up global oil and logistics costs, increasing risks of higher fuel and food prices, as well as disruptions to key transit routes.

Passenger car production in Uzbekistan rose year-on-year in early 2026, with output exceeding 64,000 units and led by high volumes of Cobalt alongside continued contributions from both domestic and international brands.

Uzbekistan has expanded its green coverage from 8% to 14.2% through large-scale tree planting, protective forests, and urban parks, highlighted by the launch of the 108-hectare National Dendrology Park under the Green Nation program.

Samarkand-based startup AliPos, a SaaS platform for the HoReCa sector, has secured a $200,000 investment following its appearance on the first season of Taqdimot (The Pitch Uzbekistan), aiming to expand its restaurant management platform across Uzbekistan.

Uzbekistan has reviewed how higher education institutions are implementing reserve officer training programs, focusing on preparing qualified military personnel through updated curricula, expanded technical facilities, and improved selection systems.

Uzbekistan’s Minister Laziz Kudratov met with U.S. EXIM Bank Regional Director John Ahn to discuss financing mechanisms and expand bilateral cooperation on investment projects in agriculture, transportation, mining, and infrastructure.

Uzbekistan is holding negotiations with leading spacefaring countries to send its first national cosmonaut into orbit, aiming to expand scientific research and strengthen international cooperation in the space sector.

Javokhir Sindarov defeated Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa in the third round of the Candidates Tournament in Cyprus, reaching 2.5 points and sharing the lead with Fabiano Caruana ahead of their upcoming head-to-head match.

Construction of Tashkent’s National Dendrological Park begins April 1 as part of Uzbekistan’s “Green Nation” initiative, aiming to create a scientific, educational, and recreational green space across multiple districts.

Uzbekistan’s Minister of Investment, Industry, and Trade Laziz Kudratov met with a JICA delegation to review ongoing projects in livestock, small business, energy, and STEM education and to discuss accelerating investment collaboration and participation in the Tashkent International Investment Forum.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev and Yermek Kosherbayev discussed strengthening Uzbekistan–Kazakhstan relations, with a focus on expanding cooperation in economic projects, rare metals, tourism, and humanitarian exchange.

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed economic performance and outlined targets for growth, investment, infrastructure, and job creation in Namangan Region amid global market challenges.