Central Asia

Uzbekistan is trying to position itself as a technology hub for Central Asia, combining tax incentives, sector-specific tech parks, a young workforce and closer regional ties. A key part of that push is “Enterprise Uzbekistan,” a free zone for technology companies and financial organizations that is expected to operate under English common law.

For many Chinese investors, Kazakhstan and Central Asia have long been associated with natural resources—oil, gas, mining and commodities. Zhanbolat Kakishev, Chief Product Officer of the Astana International Financial Center (AIFC), believes that perception is beginning to change. “Traditionally, China always looked into the advanced economies—Europe,…

Kazakhstan’s venture capital ecosystem is still young, but Askar Bilisbekov, CEO and board member of Alem Capital Management, sees room for growth through more institutional capital, stronger international links and deeper ties with China.

At an SCMP Live panel in Astana, representatives of AIX, HKEX, Alem Capital Management and Gobi Partners discussed how Central Asian companies could connect with international capital, and what a more diversified route beyond traditional resource and trade links might require.

The MOU marks another step in TechNode’s expansion of its global technology and innovation network. TechNode, The Tech and KTIH will combine their media reach, regional industry networks and cross-border innovation resources to support business connections, investment dialogue and market cooperation between China and Central Asia, creating new opportunities…