Uzbekistan is preparing to launch pilot satellite internet services in 2026, a move expected to significantly improve connectivity in remote and mountainous areas. The announcement was made by Prime Minister Abdulla Aripov during the Digital Qazaqstan 2026 international forum held in Shymkent on March 27.
Why is satellite internet important for Uzbekistan?
The introduction of satellite internet is aimed at bridging the digital gap in hard-to-reach regions. To support this initiative, the government has already introduced a comprehensive package of tax incentives designed to attract satellite operators and stimulate investment in the sector.
How has Uzbekistan’s digital infrastructure evolved?
Over the past nine years, Uzbekistan has made rapid progress in expanding its digital infrastructure. Broadband internet coverage has increased from 41% to 99.5%, while network capacity has grown fortyfold. In addition, consolidating e-government systems into a unified data center has reduced public spending by 30%.
The government is also completing the deployment of a high-performance computing cluster that will support national artificial intelligence systems and help scale pilot projects into full industrial use.
What role does artificial intelligence play?
Artificial intelligence is already being integrated into industrial operations. One example is the Copper Concentration Plant No. 3 at the Almalyk Mining and Metallurgical Complex, which uses a digital system connecting more than 60 subsystems and 20,000 sensors for real-time production analysis.
To accelerate AI development, Uzbekistan has established an Artificial Intelligence Alliance and is launching 19 specialized research and training laboratories across the country.
How is the startup ecosystem growing?
Uzbekistan’s startup sector has experienced rapid expansion, reaching a total valuation of $4 billion compared to just $1 million a decade ago. Currently, around 800 startup projects are active, with 60 already exporting services internationally.
Venture capital funding has also grown significantly, with total available funds nearing $350 million. These achievements have helped Uzbekistan secure 9th place globally in the World Bank’s ranking for digital government maturity.
What about international satellite providers?
While specific companies were not mentioned during the forum, the initiative aligns with earlier statements by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev regarding the entry of international satellite operators into the Uzbek market.
Notably, Starlink’s official coverage plans have previously indicated a potential launch in Uzbekistan in 2026, suggesting growing interest from global providers in the country’s digital future.