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FIRST DAY | MAY 2, 2024 |
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Opening of TIIF |
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10:00 – 11:30 |
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Plenary Session |
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Panel Sessions |
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12:00 – 13:00 (simultaneously) |
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Round table: Studies have shown that there is a clear correlation between economic development and a well-functioning judiciary. Investors do not only need a legal and regulatory system that protects their rights, but also a court system where they can enforce these rights. The proposed Tashkent International Commercial Court (TICC) is providing an international standard dispute resolution forum in Uzbekistan for international investors. How does the TICC differ from the local courts? What is its standing? How is the court structured? What practices and procedures does the court apply? How are its judges appointed? What is the relationship between the TICC and international arbitration? Moderator: Marie-Anne Birken, International lawyer Speakers Mark Beer OBE, Co-Founder, Seven Pillars Law |
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Panel Session: (Hall 2) The implementation of technology is becoming an important factor in the development and competitiveness of the financial sector. Supported by the dynamics and prospects for economic growth of Uzbekistan, fintech is one of the fastest growing and innovative segments of the Uzbek economy. The use of digital wallets, e-commerce and digital banks are emerging, due to the global trend of digitalization of financial services. Reforms aimed Moderator: Esin Unal Yilmaz, Principal, Advisors Mastercard Speakers: Mark Shmulevich, Managing Director, Aloniq |
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Panel Session: "A Joint Path to Success: Uzbekistan and Azerbaijan" offers an in-depth analysis of the key aspects of economic cooperation between the two countries. It highlights how established historical and cultural ties have formed the basis of current economic relations and examines successful joint projects in the areas of trade, investment, energy, and tourism. Moderator: Sardor Mukhammedaliev, Founder, Biz Network, SM's 5AM Club Speakers: Mikayil Jabbarov, Minister of Economy of Azerbaijan |
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Panel Session: Uzbekistan is increasingly becoming the destination of choice for investors in Central Asia. The large and growing market of 37 million people, the strategic location on transport corridors between Asia and Europe, the tariff-free access to the EU market for over 6,000 products, abundant natural resources and competitive costs collectively create a compelling reason to invest. This panel will discuss practical experience of building significant and sustainable operations in a variety of sectors in Uzbekistan. Moderator: Sean McEllin, Advisor for National Economic Development Projects, Saviday Speakers: Omar N. Al Midani, President and CEO, Vision Invest |
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Panel Session: This pivotal session focuses on a comprehensive exploration of water resource management, the evolution of its goals and priorities, and the roles of key stakeholders in the upcoming transformation. Water resources have undeniable importance in the economic structure of Uzbekistan. We invite policymakers, industry players, and community advocates to engage in a crucial dialogue on the sustainable utilization of Uzbekistan's most precious resource: water. Proper water management facilitates efficient water utilization for economic growth, prevents waste, and maintains the balance of local ecosystems. It is also crucial for adapting to changing climate conditions, increasing water scarcity, and meeting growing agricultural demands. Moderator: Igor Alekseyev, Managing Director & Partner, BCG Speakers: Rahel Boesch, Deputy Head of Mission, Embassy of Switzerland |
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13:00 – 14:00 |
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Lunch |
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Panel Sessions |
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14:00 – 15:00 (simultaneously) |
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Round table: (Hall Ballroom) At present, Uzbekistan is working on creation of an International financial center in Tashkent (hereinafter - the Central Asian IFC/IFC in Tashkent). An ambitious goal has been set - to make Tashkent a leading regional IFC, making the capital of the Republic of Uzbekistan a competitive investment and financial hub for international business and investors. The creation of the IFC is intended to function as an important driver for the implementation of the ambitious goals of the Uzbekistan-2030 Strategy, as well as to become a tool for attracting additional investment and introducing the best practices of corporate governance, ESG and technology. What competitive advantages does Tashkent have to attract global investors? What attracts investors to Uzbekistan and what conditions need to be created at the IFC to increase the investment attractiveness of the country? What is the current status of the project for the establishment of the IFC in Uzbekistan? What steps need to be taken first and foremost? Moderator: Andrew Hayes, CEO, Hudson Sandler LLP. Speakers: Alena Dolgova, Director of the Analytical Bureau of IFC. Digital |
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Panel Session: The panel will discuss the role of investment in startups and technology in shaping future economic and social development. Participants will discuss current trends in investment, growth prospects for startups, the importance of innovation and technological solutions, and different approaches to financing young companies. The discussion will also touch upon the risks and opportunities in investing in the startup and technology sector, as well as the role of the government and regulators in supporting innovation and the startup ecosystem. Moderator: Timothy Eun, CEO, SocraticsAI and TRACE Capital Holdings Speakers: Boris Tadić, Former President of Serbia, Member of the Borad of VEON Group |
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Pitch Session: Uzbekistan attaches great importance to the development of industrial sector of the country. In 2023, more than 69.4 thousand industrial enterprises operating in the country produced products worth 51.72 billion USD. The highest share in this direction (84.4%) fell on the manufacturing industry. The processes of transformation and modernization of major industries continue, in which FDI attraction plays an important role. Leading industry executives will present 11 promising projects in such areas as agriculture, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering and construction materials in Uzbekistan. Moderator: Juergen Mendritzki, Project Director, Saviday Speaker: Alisher Shukurov, Deputy Minister of Agriculture |
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Panel Session: All global cities face growth challenges. Rapid economic development requires additional labor resources, which, among other things, leads to outpacing population growth. Tashkent's first step towards global markets was The Tashkent City project, which showed that the city can manage complex development projects. The next step was the New Tashkent project, which should create a favorable and modern environment for more than 1 million residents. How to ensure that New Tashkent does not compete with the old city, does not take away much-needed resources, and provides synergy in attracting international investment and expertise to Uzbekistan? Moderator: Denis Sokolov, Partner, Commonwealth Partnership Saidnosir Usmonov, Spokesperson, Ministry of Construction and Housing and Communal Services of Uzbekistan (New Tashkent) Speaker: Hakan Agca, Executive Director, Cross Works |
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Panel Session: This discussion on the development of renewable energy in Uzbekistan and Central Asia. The host introduces each participant and asks them specific questions about their vision, experience, and plans in the field of renewable energy. Various aspects are discussed, such as attracting investors, developing infrastructure, technological innovations, project scalability, the role of climate financing, and policy recommendations to encourage renewable energy development. The host addresses each participant, providing an opportunity to share their opinions and experiences, as well as respond to specific questions related to their expertise and area of activity. Participants share their visions and strategies for developing renewable energy, as well as offer their recommendations and solutions to support this process in Uzbekistan and Central Asia. The discussion aims to identify key factors for successful renewable energy development, such as creating a favorable investment climate, leveraging innovative technologies, strategic partnerships and collaboration, as well as efficient utilization of financial resources and climate financing mechanisms. Moderator: Aida Sitdikova, Director Energy Eurasia, EBRD Speakers: Jurabek Mirzamahmudov, Minister of Energy of Uzbekistan |
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Panel Sessions |
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15:00 – 16:00 (simultaneously) |
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Round Table: This session will witness the launch of Trade Connect Central Asia+ (TCCA+), which is a pioneering regional economic cooperation initiative and a flagship program introduced by International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC), member of the Islamic Development Bank Group. Central Asia Region has always been at the center of ancient and modern trade routes, and it offers enormous potential for trade and investment opportunities. The session will bring together ministers and policymakers in the region along with heads of selected international organizations and International Financial Institutions (IFIs) to discuss ways and means to unleash intra-regional trade and investment potential, particularly within the context of TCCA+ Program launch. Moderator: Simon Quijano-Evans, Chief Economist, Gemcorp Speakers: Jamshid Khodjaev, Deputy Prime Minister of Uzbekistan (tbc) |
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Panel Session: The quality of corporate governance is one of the elements Where is Uzbekistan located on the “world map” of the quality Moderator: Denis Spirin, Steering Committee’s Member, Chapter Zero Uzbekistan Speakers: Jennifer Nordquist, EVP, Economic Innovation Group, Former U.S. Executive Director, World Bank Group |
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Investment in e-commerce: market trends and prospects (Hall 8) As the digital economy expands, Uzbekistan presents a unique landscape ripe for investment and growth in online business platforms. This discussion will bring together industry experts, investors, and policymakers to explore the current state of e-commerce and the potential for future expansion in the region. Attendees will gain insights into market dynamics, consumer behavior, regulatory frameworks, and investment opportunities, equipping them with the necessary knowledge to navigate and capitalize on Uzbekistan's e-commerce sector. Moderator: Daria Terkina, Head of Commercial Products, Mastercard Speakers: Mehrzad Michael Khoi, Co-founder & Group CEO, Zoodmall |
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Pitch Session: This session will focus on the significant strides Uzbekistan has made in enhancing its road, railway, and airport infrastructure, thereby boosting trade, local economic prospects, and job creation. Participants will explore 6 public-private partnership (PPP) investment projects that encompass road and railway construction, as well as an airport concession in Urgench, with a total estimated investment volume of up to US$18 billion. This initiative is part of Uzbekistan's broader effort to improve infrastructure connectivity and efficiency across the country. Additionally, the panel will discuss the "New Tashkent" project, approved in 2024 by the President of Uzbekistan, which aims Moderator: Ankit Chaturvedi, Partner, Synergy Consulting Infrastructure and Financial Advisory Inc. Speaker: Jasurbek Choriev, Deputy Minister of Transport |
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Panel Session: Central Asia, renowned for its historical Silk Road legacy and diverse cultural heritage, continues to evolve as a focal point for foreign investment in the tourism sector. This panel brings together industry leaders and experts to explore the compelling opportunities and challenges in leveraging Central Asia's cultural richness to attract foreign investors. Attendees can expect to gain valuable insights, industry perspectives, and actionable strategies for capitalizing on the unique allure of Central Asia's tourism and cultural assets in attracting foreign investments. Moderator: Elena Son, Executive Director, AUCC, USKGZBC, USTJBC, USABI Speakers: Paolo Barletta, CEO, Arsenale |
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Pitch Session: During the session, which will be started by the opening remarks of the Prime-Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan H.E. Abdulla Aripov and Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers - Head of the Presidential Administration of the Kyrgyz Republic H.E. Akylbek Zhaparov investors will be familiarized with 2 jointly implemented projects with Kyrgyz Republic and Republic of Tajikistan in the energy sector with the total cost of 3,4 billion US dollars. Moderator: Sean McEllin, Partner, Saviday Speaker: Jurabek Mirzamahmudov, Minister of Energy of Uzbekistan |
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Panel Sessions 16:00 – 17:00 (simultaneously) |
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Round table: In this increasingly volatile global economic landscape, nations face the dual challenge of ensuring long-term resilience while pursuing aggressive growth strategies. This panel will explore multifaceted approaches that governments can adopt to navigate these challenges effectively. Key topics include stabilizing economies amidst fluctuating markets, combating inflation, and harnessing international investment opportunities. Moderator: Jonathan Charles, Advisor on Communications to Uzbekistan Speakers: Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion of Oman |
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Panel Session: International trade represents a well-established pathway to sustainable economic growth and development. As countries endeavor to enhance their exports, they continue to confront a range of obstacles, including a lack of domestic capacity and trade, political barriers in export markets. The WTO sets trade rules and proposes ways to resolve disputes arising from trade, making it the largest instrument of integration between countries in the world through free trade, removing barriers and lowering costs for producers. What are the economic benefits and risks associated with integration into the WTO? How will countries' domestic trade policies change following WTO accession? What policies and reforms can maximize the benefits of WTO membership? What are the social and environmental implications of WTO integration? Moderator: Mandeep Bains, Director Economic Governance, Office of Sir Suma Chakrabarti, Adviser to the Uzbekistan President Speakers Azizbek Urunov, Special Representative of the President of Uzbekistan on WTO |
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Panel Session: According to the World Bank report (2018, 2020): “A transparent, predictable, and open regulatory environment is critical to attracting and retaining foreign investment. Foreign investors consistently identify a country's legal and regulatory framework as one of the key factors in deciding whether to invest in the country." In 2022, Uzbekistan attracted foreign investment of US$2.5 billion and has an ambitious plan to attract foreign investment of US$110 billion by 2030 as part of the Uzbekistan 2030 strategy. Therefore, transparent, predictable and investor friendly Investment law is the key. Which provisions of the new Law “On Investments” will be designed to improve the regulatory environment to attract private investment and achieve planned goals? Will the practical implementation of the Investment Law help attract private investment and bring greater clarity and predictability to the activities of foreign investors? Will the proposed measures to support and protect investors from the state help them choose Uzbekistan when making decisions on investment, successful implementation of investment projects and reinvestment in subsequent projects? Moderator: Tarik Sahovic, Principal Operations Officer, IFC Speakers: Jason Chung, Senior Advisor, Patomak Global Partners & as U.S. Director of the Asian Development Bank |
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Panel Session: This theme explores the impact and role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in transforming regional and global economies. AI-based algorithms are playing a key role in change, driving sustainable development and innovation. They optimize processes, automate routine tasks, and provide insights from big data. The topic also looks at the expected changes brought about by the penetration of AI and the need to prepare for this new epochal shift to ensure an inclusive and sustainable future. Moderator: Timothy Eun, CEO, SocraticsAI and TRACE Capital Holdings Speakers: Sherzod Shermatov, Minister of Digital Technologies of Uzbekistan |
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17:00 – 18:00 |
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Signing ceremony of investment and trade agreements (Hall 1) |
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Cultural event |
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19:00 – 21:00 |
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Reception (by invitation) |
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SECOND DAY | MAY 3, 2024 |
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Business Breakfasts (by invitation) |
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08:00 – 09:00 |
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Business breakfast: Entrepreneurs’ roles and responsibilities are not limited to profit-making. While profit is essential for business survival and growth, social responsibility is equally critical. This involves being accountable for the impact of business operations on society, local community, environment, wellbeing of citizens, consumers, and other stakeholders. The panel discussion will explore inspiring examples of women’s entrepreneurship and its role and potential to bring positive impacts in our society. Moderator: Tatiana Proskuryakova, Regional Country Director, World Bank Speakers: Spartak Tetrashvili, CEO, TBC Bank |
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Business breakfast: The expansion of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) plays a crucial role in economic growth and job creation in any country. This topic explores the multifaceted role of government, investors, and entrepreneurs in facilitating the growth and scaling of SMEs. Moderator: Thomas Emanuel Dans, former U.S. Treasury International Affairs Speakers: Baghdad Amreyev, President, Turkic Investment Fund |
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Business breakfast: This session promises a deep dive into the transformative impact of digital technologies on the banking industry, featuring insights from the esteemed CEOs and leaders of TBC Bank, OTP Bank, AVO Bank, Halyk Bank, and Eurasia Bank. As financial institutions navigate through advancements like AI, blockchain, and fintech innovations, our panelists will explore how these technologies are reshaping customer experiences, operational efficiencies, and competitive strategies in the banking sector. Attendees will gain valuable perspectives on adapting to digital trends, securing financial transactions, and the future of banking in an increasingly digital economy. Whether you are a professional in the finance industry, a tech enthusiast, or simply keen on understanding the future of banking, this panel will provide comprehensive insights and forward-thinking discussions. Moderator: Аntonio Benjamin, former CTO, Citigroup Speakers: Nikolas Kurdiani, CEO, TBC Bank |
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Business breakfast: Today Uzbekistan is one of the most attractive global emerging markets for investment. Despite the fact that the share of European investments in Uzbekistan is rapidly increasing, in terms of the number of investments it still remains lower than investments in Uzbekistan from other regions. This year, Uzbekistan and the EU are celebrating the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations, political relations are at the highest level of interaction over a 30-year period, and the EU is highlighting a central role for the development of closer relations with Central Asia in its foreign policy. How can European business use these conditions to increase economic and investment interaction with Uzbekistan? What is the role of current European investment in the country, where is it concentrated and what are the new and unexplored opportunities? What benefits do European investments bring to Uzbekistan? What can the Government do to further increase the attractiveness for European investors? What is the role of business associations in creating bridges between the EU business community and Uzbekistan? Moderator: Oybek Shaykhov, Secretary-General, EUROUZ Speakers: Charlotte Adriaen, Ambassador of the European Union to Uzbekistan |
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Pitch Sessions |
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10:00 – 13:00 (simultaneously) |
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Pitch Session: Over the past six years, Uzbekistan has attracted more than $50 billion of foreign investment. The country's geographical location, abundance of natural resources and big domestic market with a population of 37 million people represent a huge potential for investment and growth potential. The Government of Uzbekistan attaches great importance to increase FDI and create all the necessary economic conditions to facilitate business environment in the region. What government support measures are necessary for the successful implementation of investment projects in the regions of Uzbekistan? What determines the effectiveness of the mechanisms for shaping the investment climate in the country? Moderator: Juergen Mendritzki, Project Director, Saviday Speakers: Sharof Rahmanov, Deputy Mayor of Tashkent city |
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Pitch Session: Over the past six years, Uzbekistan has attracted more than $50 billion of foreign investment. The country's geographical location, abundance of natural resources and big domestic market with a population of 37 million people represent a huge potential for investment and growth potential. The Government of Uzbekistan attaches great importance to increase FDI and create all the necessary economic conditions to facilitate business environment in the region. What government support measures are necessary for the successful implementation of investment projects in the regions of Uzbekistan? What determines the effectiveness of the mechanisms for shaping the investment climate in the country? Moderator: Andrzej Schafernaker, Senior Advisor, Saviday Speakers: Azamat Oteuliev, Minister of Investment and Foreign Trade of the Republic of Karakalpakstan |
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11:00 – 13:00 |
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Round Table: |
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Panel Sessions 11:00 – 12:00 (simultaneously) |
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Round Table: According to the latest World Happiness Report prepared by Oxford University experts, Tashkent ranks 47th on the happiness index. The index is based on the comparison of countries in terms of how their residents perceive the quality of their lives. Tashkent is the happiness leader in the Central Asian region according to this rating. Last year, government of Uzbekistan set a goal to reach the 50th position in the rating of the world's most favorable cities by 2030. To rise in the rating from 157th position to 50th seems an extremely ambitious task. How it could be achieved? And won't the transformation of the city to improve the quality of the urban environment lower the level of happiness of the residents? Moderator: Sergey Riabokobylko, Group Executive Partner, Commonwealth Partnership Speakers: Vladislav Boutenko, Managing Director and Senior Partner, BCG |
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Panel Session: Today, the Government of Uzbekistan pays special attention to supporting young people to realize business projects and contribute to the future of the country. The declaration of 2024 as the "Year of Youth and Business Support" in Uzbekistan is a strategic step aimed at further strengthening youth business. What factors are holding back the younger generation from actively engaging in entrepreneurial activities? What government support measures are necessary for the successful implementation of youth startup initiatives? What modern types of investment should be used to support creative youth? Moderator: Muzaffar Djalalov, Rector, Inha University in Tashkent Speakers: Alisher Sadullaev, Head of the Agency for Youth Affairs |
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Panel Session: Residency and citizenship through investment is estimated at billions of dollars of FDI per year. Many countries around the world are seeking to attract private foreign investors to invest in their particular countries, in return for residence or citizenship by investment, to improve freedom of movement in a globalized world. There are more than 85 residence permits by investment programs in the world, but many of them are not well publicized or attractive enough. The most popular residence by investment programs is in Portugal, Spain, Italy, Greece, Malta, and the US. What do these programs have in common and how can this experience be replicated in the Republic of Uzbekistan? What are the main investment instruments for individuals (property purchase, capital market, deposits, bonds) and which ones attract the most investors? How can the state attract and use this resource for the development of the real estate sector and urban planning? Moderator: Akram Mukhamatkulov, Head of Office, Henley & Partners Speakers: Jacopo Zamboni, Executive Director, Head of Private Clients, Henley & Partners Switzerland AG |
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Panel Session: As the Uzbek economy transitions to market principles and the role of state-owned enterprises decreases, private enterprises need to fill the opening gap and drive future growth. SMEs are one new driving force of future growth in Uzbekistan. This session will map and discuss the challenges that Uzbek SMEs confront, and which can prevent the scaling up of SMEs’ successful businesses, generating more private sector jobs in all regions of Uzbekistan, and increasing the country’s exports. The presented evidence will be based on the 2022 Business Pulse Survey of the World Bank, and the good practices in SME support programs identified through the World Bank’s work with SMEs around the globe. The session will also review preliminary evidence from focus group interviews conducted in Uzbekistan and provide some directions for improving Uzbekistan’s SME support programs and access Moderator: Martin Melecky, Lead Economist, World Bank Speakers: Kiyotaka Tanaka, Senior Financial Sector Specialist, World Bank |
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13:00 – 14:00 |
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Signing ceremony of investment and trade agreements (Hall 1) |
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Panel Sessions |
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14:00 – 15:00 (simultaneously) |
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Round table: The Great Silk Road, a historic network of trade routes connecting East and West, holds immense cultural, economic, and geopolitical significance. This panel session delves into the revitalization of the Great Silk Road in the modern era, exploring opportunities to enhance connectivity, foster economic cooperation, and promote cultural exchange along its ancient routes. Moderator: Richard Quest, Anchor and Correspondent, CNN Speakers: Hervé Juvin, Member of the European Parliament |
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Panel Session: The chemical industry of Uzbekistan which focuses on the production of mineral fertilizers and extractive industry products, brought to the creation of effective conditions for sustainable growth of production in the agricultural sector, maintaining food security of the country and contributing to the development of basic sectors of the economy. The challenges facing the country in the future are fundamentally different from those of the transition period. What plans and strategies are being developed to ensure the annual growth rate of Uzbekistan's chemical industry and what measures should be taken in the country to make this industry even more attractive to foreign investors? Moderator: Lucas Casey, Manager, IFC Speakers: Oliver Pfann, Vice President, Linde |
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Pitch Session: Today innovative scientific pharmaceutical cluster "Tashkent Pharma Park" is being constructed. The project consists of three main parts: scientific and educational, administrative, and industrial zones. To date, construction of the administrative part of the complex is underway. Also, measures are being taken to accelerate the construction of pharmaceutical technical university, preclinical research centre, clinical research centre. All these initiatives and investment projects will be discussed during the session. Moderator: Khujaeva Shakhrizoda, Head of Department, Pharmaceutical Industry Development Agency of Uzbekistan Speakers: Abdulla Azizov, Director, Pharmaceutical Industry Development Agency of Uzbekistan |
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Panel Session: Today we are losing one acre of topsoil per second, which is a concerning rate. The absence of organic matter and microorganisms in the soil leads to its degradation, turning it into a desert. 2023 was the hottest year on record, we all know someone who experienced more extreme draughts, rainfalls, heatwaves, or fires. Scientists are saying that we are highly likely to exceed a 1.5-degree temperature increase in the coming years, followed by decades of climatic disruptions, upheavals, and catastrophes. How can we create a sense of urgency, implement transgenerational thinking in our corporate and government strategies, and maximize the leverage of financial resources to build new and more inclusive economic models in harmony with nature, delivering not only comforts for human beings but also replenishing and safeguarding our natural resources for our children and grandchildren? Moderator: Eve Novikova, Director Corp Wellbeing Events Speakers: Aziz Abdukhakimov, Minister of Ecology, Environmental Protection and Climate Change of Uzbekistan |
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Panel Session: In 2023, retail trade turnover grew by 11% in real terms, while GDP growth was less than 6%. Although retail trade is growing faster than other sectors, a number of factors prevent it from becoming the leading driver of economic development. The contribution of trade to GDP in Uzbekistan is 6.3%, while in neighboring Kazakhstan this figure is three times higher - 18.3%, and in the USA - 12%. Modern retail is a set of technological, financial, economic, and social solutions that improve the quality of life of citizens, the well-being of cities and provide opportunities for business growth. Moderator: Denis Sokolov, General Director, Commonwealth Partnership Uzbekistan Speakers: Mark Samoilovich, Director, Awara IT |
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Panel Session: Experts on this panel will discuss the global experience of privatization of state assets as an important factor in attracting foreign investment. In addition, participants will discuss the reforms undertaken in Uzbekistan in recent years to reduce state participation in the economy, expand private ownership through privatization of state assets and harmonies privatization legislation. Future plans in this area and the tremendous opportunities the new privatization program offers for local and foreign investors will also be discussed. Moderator: Wiebke Schloemer, Regional Director, IFC Speakers: Sri Prakash Lohia, Founder and Chairman, Indorama Corporation |
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Panel Sessions 15:00 – 16:00 (simultaneously) |
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Round table: In recent years, global supply chains have undergone radical changes due to the epidemiological situation, fluctuations in demand, changes in logistics routes, as well as the development of technology and e-commerce. Achieving a balance in a dynamic global supply chains requires the public and private sectors to consolidate efforts for the strategic development of transport and logistics corridors and trade infrastructure, the introduction of new technologies into production processes and the improvement of supply chain management methods. Moderator: William Tompson, Head of the Eurasia Division, OECD Speakers: Ibrokhim Abdurakhmaonov, Minister of Agriculture (tbc) |
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Panel Session: A mining enterprise is a very complex object for investment. Many investors do not know how to approach its valuation and do not always fully understand the prospects and risks associated with the development of deposits. Funds, banks and private investors, who are directly involved in the capital of the project operator, can afford a certain amount of risk in the hope of "catching" a jump in capitalization, shifting closer to the beginning of the project - to the largest delta between costs and potential capitalization. However, we should not forget about the need for a sensible assessment of all the complex factors affecting efficiency. Moderator: Michael Opagi, Manager, IFC Speakers: Abdulla Abdukadirov, First Deputy General Director, Agency for Strategic Reforms under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan |
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Panel Session: What are the recent ESG trends and developments impacting and shaping international investors' considerations when evaluating emerging market investment opportunities? The panel will discuss these developments and focus on the learnings and priorities for Uzbekistan to maintain its momentum in attracting increasing and varying forms of foreign direct investment. Moderator Charlie Jack, Partner, Hudson Sandler Speakers: Enrico Pinali, Regional Head, ADB |
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Panel Session: According to a World Bank report (2008): “Since the first privately created and managed zones first appeared in the 1980s, their development has accelerated dramatically and 62% of the 2,301 zones in developing and transition countries are created and managed by the private sector.” UNCTAD (2019) survey of 120 investment promotion agencies (IPAs) globally, revealed that over 60% of IPAs claim that SEZ have attracted most of FDIs in that country and that SEZs are key for FDI attraction. Bringing experienced private sector investors and operators to build and operate the zone enables more FDIs, will offer better quality services to zone companies. This also benefits the state and the country, since private zones and their infrastructure are built at the expense of private investors, ultimately attracting new technologies and creating new jobs. What conditions of the new Law “On Special Free Zones” will be designed to improve the regulatory environment to attract private investment? Will the implementation of the Law “On Special Free Zones” help attract private investors, promote export development and technological development of the country? What risks might there be when introducing a new regulatory environment? What services for investors should be offered in these new zones? Moderator: Tarik Sahovic, Principal Operations Officer, IFC Speakers: Orhan AYDIN, Chairman of the Board, Ostim |
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Pitch Session: Uzbekistan has made significant progress in the development of information technology and digital infrastructure, which has contributed to increased exports of information services and products, improved the country's economic prospects, and created new jobs in the information technology sector. According to "Uzbekistan - 2030" strategy, Uzbekistan aimed to become regional IT Hub. It is planned to develop digital technologies and increase exports of IT services and software products to US$ 5 billion by 2030. During the panel experts will explain ways to achieve this goal and present investment projects to investors. Moderator: Ruzmetova Kamolakhon, Head of Department, IT Park Speakers: Sherzod Shermatov, Minister of Digital Technologies of Uzbekistan |
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15:00 – 18:00 |
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Specialized Panel Session by “Crans Montana Forum” In our rapidly changing world, where borders between countries are becoming increasingly transparent thanks to globalization and digitalization, issues of reputation, trust and security are at the forefront of the agendas of every state and business. It is becoming increasingly clear that corruption is not just an internal problem of individual countries; it is a global phenomenon that undermines the foundations of sustainable development and the efficiency of economic systems. In the context of investment attractiveness, the cleanliness of the political and economic arena plays a critical role in determining the degree of risk and the potential for investment growth. It is widely recognized that effectively combating corruption requires a comprehensive approach that includes strengthening legislation, increasing transparency of government actions, and active participation of civil society. Improved anti-corruption policies and security strategies have a direct impact on the investment climate, making the country more attractive to foreign investors. Against this background, the introduction of digital technologies could play a key role in monitoring and preventing corrupt practices at all levels. This specialized session will feature the views of distinguished speakers who have made a significant impact in their fields, including royalty, former presidents, economic and legislative experts.
Moderator: Carteron Jean-Paul Olivier, Chairman and Founder, Crans Montana Forum Speakers: HRH Prince Jean of Luxembourg |
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16:00 – 17:00 |
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Signing ceremony of investment and trade agreements (Hall 1) |