Shamkeev noted that these issues are under the attention not only of the National Bank and the Ministry of Finance but also at the level of the country's highest leadership.
According to him, for more than three decades, Kyrgyzstan has been placing orders for the production of banknotes and documents in other countries, which has led to capital outflow and contributed to corruption risks. Currently, the republic is already independently producing some state documents, such as passports and driver's licenses.
The economist added that the domestic production of currency in the country will significantly reduce costs — savings can reach 30%, which will lead to increased revenues to the treasury.
Shamkeev emphasized that the demand for cash in Kyrgyzstan is growing annually; however, global practices demonstrate the effectiveness of transitioning to cashless operations. For example, in China, the share of cash is about 10%, while 90% of transactions are conducted electronically.
Moreover, digital payments are actively developing in the country, including the introduction of a digital som, the expert noted.
Earlier, President Sadyr Japarov stated that Kyrgyzstan has, for the first time in its history, begun to independently print its national currency — the som.
