Uzbekistan and Japan Advance Technology Partnership to a New Stage

The Forum opened with remarks by Rustam Karimjonov, Deputy Minister of Digital Technologies of the Republic of Uzbekistan, who emphasized the importance of strengthening technology cooperation between Uzbekistan and Japan and developing practical links between the two countries’ innovation ecosystems.

The Forum addressed the results of bilateral cooperation, the development of the digital community, support for innovative ventures, and opportunities for technology companies to enter new markets.

Speakers included Kenji Hirata, Ambassador of Japan to Uzbekistan; Hideo Fuseda, Vice Minister of Japan’s Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications; Yuta Ichinose, Director of JETRO’s Tashkent Office; Kazuhiro Oyoshi, Partner at Headline Asia VC; and Kawashima Takeru, Executive Director of 01Booster Inc.

The Forum took place amid growing economic ties between the two countries. In 2024, bilateral trade turnover increased by 35%, while the portfolio of projects involving leading Japanese companies and banks exceeded $12 billion. Around 100 joint ventures and organizations were operating in Uzbekistan.

Technology cooperation is also expanding. According to information provided by the Forum organizers, the number of Japanese companies holding IT Park resident status increased from 2 to 25 in nearly two years. Earlier IT Park data showed that as of February 2025, the ecosystem included 10 member companies with Japanese capital, three of which were exporting IT services.

Discussions focused on translating the growing bilateral relationship into practical outcomes, including new technology projects, investment connections, and opportunities for companies to expand into international markets.

According to preliminary Forum materials, expected outcomes included Tokyo Innovation Base membership and a development program for five innovative ventures in partnership with 01Booster, aimed at creating new opportunities between the Uzbek and Japanese markets. New agreements and partnerships were also planned as part of the Forum.

The Uzbek–Japan Digital Community Forum provided a platform for government institutions, investors, and technology companies to strengthen direct connections and identify new opportunities for Japanese companies in Uzbekistan and for Uzbek technology companies seeking access to the Japanese market.