Tashkent Investment Push: The 5th Tashkent International Investment Forum wrapped with big signals for Uzbekistan’s tech-and-industry ambitions, including plans for a Tashkent International Financial Center with tax/customs incentives, free capital movement and an independent regulator, plus about €75bn in proposals across energy, transport, logistics, digital infrastructure and industry. AI & Media Trust: At an SCO media forum in Issyk-Kul, Uzbekistan’s media officials stressed building a modern information space that counters misinformation, while Kazakhstan called for sharing approaches to deepfakes and fake news and discussed AI’s impact on journalism and algorithm ethics. Uzbek-Korea Tech Clusters: Uzbekistan and South Korea agreed to expand industrial clusters and infrastructure cooperation, including a biotechnology cluster in Tashkent and pharma/industrial collaboration tied to TIIF-2026. Digital Finance Growth: Uzbek fintech Uzum says it plans a new financing round before an IPO, aiming to expand its digital banking and e-commerce footprint. Housing Market Snapshot: A May review found Tashkent prices rising most for smaller apartments—especially resale one-bed units—while larger premium homes saw mild declines. Uzbekistan Airports PPP: A PPP deal was signed for a new Tashkent International Airport, with a consortium led by Vision Invest and partners from Japan and South Korea, targeting construction through 2030 and long-term private operation. Uzbekistan–Iraq Business Council: Uzbekistan and Iraq launched a joint business council at TIIF-2026, focusing on food, electrical engineering and construction, with a memorandum signed to enable direct B2B manufacturing ties.