Uzbekistan is actively cultivating a dynamic environment for innovation and artistic enterprise through the establishment of its Creative Industry Park. This initiative represents a strategic move to foster growth, collaboration, and international integration within the creative economy. For businesses and professionals operating in this sector, understanding the distinct advantages of becoming a resident of this Park is crucial for strategic planning and accelerated development.
01What is the Creative Industry Park?
The Creative Industry Park, established under Presidential Decree No. UP-61 dated March 26, 2025, is designed as a national hub to stimulate and support the creative economy. Beyond providing a physical space, its core objectives include creating favourable conditions for the development of diverse creative industries, attracting both local and foreign investments into the sector, and ensuring access to necessary resources and infrastructure for its residents.
- Developing a robust ecosystem to increase the turnover and export potential of creative products, including integration of electronic platforms into international markets
- Facilitating job creation, labour market analysis, and the continuous training and upskilling of creative professionals
- Promoting innovation and creativity across all related industries
- Establishing regional branches to expand reach and impact across Uzbekistan
02Defining the Creative Industry: Who Can Become a Resident?
According to Law No. ZRU-970 of October 3, 2024, "On Creative Industry," the scope of creative industries is broadly defined. Entities and individuals engaged in the following fields and aiming to develop and commercialise creative products are the primary candidates for residency:
- Literary Creativity: authorship, content writing
- Applied Arts and Craftsmanship: traditional and contemporary crafts, design
- Architecture, Design, and Urban Planning: architectural services, urban development, landscape design
- Fine Arts: painting, sculpture, graphic arts
- Other Creative Activities: encompassing the creation, production, storage, distribution, and promotion of creative products
03Tax, Customs, and Financial Incentives
A key driver for businesses to consider residency is the comprehensive package of incentives, active from May 1, 2025 to January 1, 2031. These benefits are designed to significantly enhance financial viability and operational efficiency:
- Reduced Personal Income Tax (PIT): a 50% reduction in PIT rates for employees of resident companies, directly lowering wage-related costs for employers
- Reduced Social Tax: a 50% reduction in the Social Tax rate, further decreasing the cost of employment
- Flexible Turnover Tax Regime: residents are included in the category of turnover tax payers irrespective of total income, with the option to switch to the generally established tax procedure if more advantageous
- Interest-Free Loans and Grants: provision of interest-free loans and grants for Park residents, subject to certain conditions, offering direct financial support for development and innovation
Important: while these significant benefits are enacted, corresponding amendments are still required to be integrated into the Tax Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan for their practical application. Businesses should stay informed about these legislative updates.
04An Ecosystem of Support Beyond Financials
Residents of the Creative Industry Park also gain access to a supportive ecosystem designed to foster growth and innovation:
- Infrastructure Access: use of modern infrastructure and facilities within the Park
- Consulting Services: access to specialised consulting services to aid business development
- Programme Participation: opportunities to participate in programmes aimed at refining new ideas and improving creative output
- Networking: a dedicated environment for collaboration, knowledge sharing, and forging partnerships within the creative community
- Talent Development: benefit from initiatives focused on training and upskilling personnel in cutting-edge creative professions