News of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek and Osh — latest events today
Economy

The successor to McDonald's in Russia "Vkusno - i tochka" enters the Kyrgyzstan market

On March 12, a contract was signed under which LLC "Alkrest Food" will take on the development of the franchise "Vkusno - i tochka," which is the successor to McDonald's in Russia, in the territory of Kyrgyzstan. Over the next five years, more than 15 restaurants with various service concepts are planned to be opened, creating approximately 750 new jobs, as reported in the network's press release. ReferenceThe "Vkusno - i tochka" network provides fast

12.03.2026, 17:54
Food Security. How Kyrgyzstan is Increasing Food Independence
Economy / Exclusive

Food Security. How Kyrgyzstan is Increasing Food Independence

During a republican meeting dedicated to the socio-economic progress of the country, President Sadyr Japarov noted that Kyrgyzstan currently fully provides itself with six out of nine critically important food products. The head of state pointed out that achieving such results is a key aspect of ensuring the food security of the nation. While a large portion of these goods was previously imported, the republic aims for complete self-sufficiency in the remaining three categories in the near

12.03.2026, 17:50
Minvodselkhozprom: Price fluctuations for eggs are normal
Economy

Minvodselkhozprom: Price fluctuations for eggs are normal

This situation may last for a month and a half According to the Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry, price fluctuations for eggs in the country are a common occurrence. The agency noted that this phenomenon is cyclical and is caused by a number of factors, including seasonality, the consequences of overproduction, and the renewal of livestock. Kyrgyzstan, in general, is capable of providing itself with eggs at 80%. In retail, the price of eggs has reached 16-18

12.03.2026, 17:31
Economy

"Delicious - and that's that" is coming to Kyrgyzstan: the first locations will open in 2026

The Russian fast food chain "Vkusno – i tochka" has announced its intention to enter the Kyrgyzstan market. The companies LLC "Sistema PBO" and OsOO "Alkrest Food" have signed a commercial concession agreement to implement the franchise, as confirmed by the press services of both organizations. Over the next five years, more than 15 restaurants with various service concepts are expected to open. This project will create approximately 750 new jobs for the local

12.03.2026, 17:19
Economy

In Portugal, the sharp increase in exports to Central Asia is being examined, including to Kyrgyzstan.

According to the newspaper Público, the authorities of Portugal have begun an investigation into the sharp increase in exports to countries located near Russia. According to the article, after the conflict in Ukraine began, exports from Portugal to these countries significantly increased. At the same time, supplies to Russia fell from over 26 million euros in 2021 to minimal levels after the European Union imposed sanctions. Data published by the National Institute of Statistics (INE) and cited

12.03.2026, 16:15
Kyrgyzstan and Korea Discussed New Initiatives in the Economic Sector
Economy / Exclusive

Kyrgyzstan and Korea Discussed New Initiatives in the Economic Sector

A meeting took place in Bishkek, attended by the Minister of Economy and Commerce of the Kyrgyz Republic, Bakyt Sydykov, and the Ambassador of South Korea to Kyrgyzstan, Kim Kwang-jae. According to the ministry, Sydykov emphasized that Korea is a valuable partner for Kyrgyzstan, with which there is intensive cooperation in various fields.

12.03.2026, 16:08
In two months, Kyrgyzstan paid off more than 126 million dollars of state debt
Economy

In two months, Kyrgyzstan paid off more than 126 million dollars of state debt

Payments were distributed between external and internal debt According to the Ministry of Finance, at the beginning of 2026, Kyrgyzstan settled its state debt amounting to approximately 126.9 million dollars. Of this amount, 51.5 million dollars was allocated for servicing external debt, while 75.4 million dollars was directed towards internal obligations. In 2025, total payments on state debt amounted to about 525.3 million dollars. By the end of 2025, the total volume of Kyrgyzstan's

12.03.2026, 16:08
Economy

The amount spent by the authorities on servicing the national debt since the beginning of the year has been announced.

In the first two months of 2026, Kyrgyzstan fulfilled its state debt obligations amounting to 11 billion 142.6 million soms, which is equivalent to approximately $126.9 million. This data was provided by the Ministry of Finance. Of the total amount, 4 billion 521.9 million soms ($51.5 million) was allocated for the repayment of external debt, while internal obligations amounted to 6 billion 620.7 million soms ($75.4 million).

12.03.2026, 15:52
Economy

Bird breeders explained the rise in egg prices, but still received a warning

The main factors contributing to the rise in prices for chicken eggs in Kyrgyzstan have been the planned vaccination of laying hens, the renewal of the flock, and the increase in feed prices. These issues were discussed at meetings with key market players that were organized to stabilize the situation. According to information received from the Antimonopoly Regulation Service, representatives from the Poultry Farmers Association, major retail chains such as "Umai Group," "Asia

12.03.2026, 15:47
On Client Rights and the Fight Against Banking Fraud Discussed at the National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic
Economy

On Client Rights and the Fight Against Banking Fraud Discussed at the National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic

Temirlan Baktybekov, a leading specialist in the consumer rights protection department of the National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic, shared information about customer rights when receiving financial services from commercial banks, as well as the processes for handling citizens' appeals. Customers should not be pressured by banks He noted that consumers of financial services have certain rights that depend on the specific product. The most important right of a customer is the ability to

12.03.2026, 15:29
Economy

Attack on Iran. Swings: the price of Brent oil has risen above $100 per barrel again.

This morning on the London ICE exchange, Brent crude oil futures for May 2026 surpassed $100 per barrel. According to trading data, as of 8:38 Bishkek time, the price of Brent rose by 10.45 percent, reaching $101.59 per barrel. By 10:00, the price of Brent slightly adjusted to $100.5 per barrel (+9.26 percent). At the same time, the price of the April WTI crude oil futures increased by 8.29 percent, reaching $94.48 per barrel.

12.03.2026, 15:21
The Kochkor Railway Station is set to open by Independence Day.
Economy / Exclusive

The Kochkor Railway Station is set to open by Independence Day.

The Deputy Director of the state enterprise "Kyrgyz Temir Zholu," Dastan Usubakunov, announced on the air of Birinchi Radio about the plans to open the Kocchor railway station on the Balykchy–Kocchor line by the Independence Day of Kyrgyzstan. According to him, the lower layer of the tracks has already been installed, and now it is necessary to complete the work on laying the upper layer. "President Sadyr Japarov noted that over the past three decades, not a single meter of

12.03.2026, 14:10
A subsidized loan from the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic will be available for domestic cars
Economy

A subsidized loan from the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic will be available for domestic cars

Borrowers will be able to choose between two interest rates: 4% or 8% per annum The Cabinet of Ministers of Kyrgyzstan has approved the project "Preferential Financing of Auto Loans - 3," as reported by the government agency. The goal of this initiative is to support local car manufacturers and stimulate demand for vehicles and trucks assembled in the country. The project will be implemented over 60 months with a total budget of 1 billion soms. Funding will come from the republican

12.03.2026, 13:56
Economy

Individual houses in Bishkek have decreased in price on a monthly basis

According to the State Agency for Land Resources, Cadastre, Geodesy, and Cartography under the government (GASRKG), in February, the average price per square meter was 164,276 soms, which is approximately $1,871. Compared to January, when this figure reached 200,029 soms, the price dropped by 35,753 soms.

12.03.2026, 13:47
Economy

The National Bank forecasted how prices will rise in Kyrgyzstan in 2026

According to the National Bank's forecasts, inflation in Kyrgyzstan will remain within 5-7% in the coming years, which aligns with the regulator's target indicators. These conclusions are included in the report on monetary policy. The document states that in 2025, the main factors contributing to price growth were the increase in global food prices, rising tariffs for electricity and utility services, as well as the increase in prices for imported fuel, which ultimately led to higher

12.03.2026, 13:24
Economy

The Agricultural Producers' Union criticized the Health Ministry's initiative on excise taxes for sugar-containing beverages

The agricultural sector of Kyrgyzstan has sent an open letter to the president, members of the cabinet of ministers, and deputies of the Jogorku Kenesh, requesting the rejection of the initiative to increase excise taxes on sugar-containing beverages. According to industry representatives, this proposal could negatively impact the processing industry, farmers' incomes, and the competitiveness of local products. Review of Excise Taxes: Business DemandsThe Association of the Agro-Industrial

12.03.2026, 13:22
Reduction in production and a blow to farmers. Business criticized the Health Ministry's idea to raise prices on drinks and snacks.
Economy

Reduction in production and a blow to farmers. Business criticized the Health Ministry's idea to raise prices on drinks and snacks.

Entrepreneurs appealed to the president and deputies of the Jogorku Kenesh In Kyrgyzstan, the business community expressed dissatisfaction with the initiative of the Ministry of Health regarding the increase in prices for sugary drinks and snacks, including chips and crackers, through an increase in excise taxes. The Association for the Development of the Agro-Industrial Complex of the Kyrgyz Republic sent an open letter to the president, prime minister, and deputies of the Jogorku Kenesh. In

12.03.2026, 13:10
Economy

The pilot tax project now includes baths and saunas

According to the press service of the State Tax Service, the list of participants in the pilot project is expanding, now also including companies that provide bath and sauna services, as well as catering establishments and fast food outlets operating under a single brand. Taxpayers who do not fall into the new categories can voluntarily join the project upon agreement with the STS.

12.03.2026, 13:02
The modernization of hydro units continues at the Uch-Kurgan HPP - photo
Economy / Exclusive

The modernization of hydro units continues at the Uch-Kurgan HPP - photo

The program to improve electricity generation continues in the Kyrgyz Republic, under which outdated hydro units are being updated, according to the Ministry of Energy. The Uch-Kurgan hydroelectric power station is one of the priority facilities where preparations are underway for the installation of modern equipment. Currently, 47.3% of the components for hydro unit No. 2 have arrived at the station's warehouse, and most of the systems are already fully equipped. At the moment, active

12.03.2026, 13:02
Economy

In the EAEU, the transportation of hazardous goods has been simplified

Within the framework of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), changes have occurred regarding the transportation of hazardous goods. The Board of the Eurasian Economic Commission has decided to implement common principles to simplify the processing and obtaining of special permits for the transportation of hazardous materials during international road transport along the roads included in the list of Eurasian transport corridors. In the new document, recommendations for member states are provided

12.03.2026, 12:30
Economy

In Russia, the largest marketplaces are being checked

Since the beginning of December 2022, the Federal Labor and Employment Service of Russia has begun extensive inspections of the largest marketplaces, such as Wildberries, Ozon, and "Yandex Market." This directive was issued by Deputy Prime Minister Tatyana Golikova on December 10, 2025. The document was reviewed by the editorial team of "Kommersant," and its authenticity was confirmed by the Rostrud service. Inspectors conducted preventive visits to the warehouses of these

12.03.2026, 12:22
Economy / Exclusive

In Chuy Region and Bishkek, egg prices are rising — reasons named

In the last two months, residents of Bishkek and the Chui region have noticed a significant increase in the price of chicken eggs — in stores, the cost reaches 16 soms for one egg. Representatives of the Ministry of Agriculture commented on the situation, pointing to several factors influencing the price increase. Opinions among store owners on this issue diverged: some cannot explain why prices have risen, while others attribute it to a sharp reduction in supply from poultry farms. In the food

12.03.2026, 11:50
Exchange rates in commercial banks of Kyrgyzstan on March 12
Economy

Exchange rates in commercial banks of Kyrgyzstan on March 12

Information about currency rates has been collected from the websites of various commercial banks. If you have any questions regarding the provided information, it is recommended to contact the banks directly. The data is current as of the time of publication. The indicated rates are intended for cash exchange and may change throughout the day.

12.03.2026, 11:50
Economy

There are downsides. Manufacturers oppose the increase in excise taxes on sugary drinks.

The Association for the Development of the Agro-Industrial Complex (APK) has proposed to reject the project to increase excise taxes on sugar-containing beverages, which was presented by the Ministry of Health. Although the organization acknowledges the importance of improving public health and preventing non-communicable diseases, it believes that the proposed measure requires a comprehensive analysis considering economic, social, and sectoral consequences.

12.03.2026, 11:31
Prices for houses and apartments. How the cost of a "square meter" has changed since the beginning of 2026
Economy

Prices for houses and apartments. How the cost of a "square meter" has changed since the beginning of 2026

At the beginning of 2026, the real estate market in Kyrgyzstan is showing different trends: in Bishkek, there is a cooling after a record growth in January, while in Osh, prices for private houses have sharply increased. According to the latest data from the State Agency for Land Resources, Cadastre, Geodesy, and Cartography, in February 2026, the cost of residential houses in Bishkek decreased by 17.87 percent after a historical peak in January, when the price reached 200,029.67 soms.

12.03.2026, 11:27
Economy

56 Tons of Onions from Kazakhstan Not Allowed into Kyrgyzstan

Differences in phytosanitary certificates and accompanying documents caused the delay. Recently, 56 tons of onions that arrived from Kazakhstan could not be imported into Kyrgyzstan. This was reported by the Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture, and Processing Industry. The incident occurred on March 9, 2026, when the cargo was attempted to be passed through the road checkpoint "Ak-Tilek." However, employees of the Chuy-Bishkek Department of Chemicalization, Plant Protection, and

12.03.2026, 10:55
Economy

Business criticized the Health Ministry's initiative on beverage excise taxes and appealed to the president.

Producers of the agro-industrial complex of Kyrgyzstan have appealed to the president, members of the cabinet of ministers, and deputies of the Jogorku Kenesh with a request to reject the proposal from the Ministry of Health to increase excise taxes on sugar-containing beverages. They express concerns that this will negatively impact processing, farmers' incomes, and the competitiveness of local products. The Ministry of Health's Proposal Raises Concerns Among BusinessesThe

12.03.2026, 10:53
The Ministry of Finance of the Kyrgyz Republic Strengthens International Cooperation at the CSW70 Platform
Economy / Exclusive

The Ministry of Finance of the Kyrgyz Republic Strengthens International Cooperation at the CSW70 Platform

The Deputy Minister of Finance of the Kyrgyz Republic, Zhibek Duyisheeva, is participating in the 70th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women, which is taking place from March 9 to 13, 2026, in New York, USA. According to the press service of the Ministry of Finance, the Kyrgyz delegation for the ministerial week includes representatives from various government agencies, including the Ministry of Finance. This underscores the active participation of the ministry in international

12.03.2026, 10:05
Economy

In Kyrgyzstan, the growth of the processing industry is being noted

In Kyrgyzstan, work on the development of the processing industry is actively ongoing, which is confirmed by stable growth in this sector. According to information from the Ministry of Agriculture, Water Resources, and Processing Industry, in 2026, the share of enterprises engaged in the production of food products, beverages, and tobacco products accounted for 18.8% of the total output of the processing industry. In January 2026, enterprises operating in the field of agricultural processing

12.03.2026, 09:59
The ruble has depreciated again, the tenge has reached a monthly high. Currency exchange rates as of March 12.
Economy

The ruble has depreciated again, the tenge has reached a monthly high. Currency exchange rates as of March 12.

Photo from the internet. The Russian ruble is under pressure again — after a rise, its value has fallen Against the backdrop of changes in the currency market, the Kazakh tenge and the Chinese yuan have strengthened their positions, while the euro and the Russian ruble have shown a decline. The US dollar remained unchanged. This data is provided by the National Bank of Kyrgyzstan and exchange points in Bishkek. US Dollar:

12.03.2026, 09:22
Three exchange offices fined 55,000 soms
Economy / Exclusive

Three exchange offices fined 55,000 soms

In Bishkek and Kant, two and one exchange office respectively were subjected to penalties for violating the legislation of the Kyrgyz Republic and the directives of the National Bank. According to information provided by the regulator, each of these offices must pay a fine of 55 thousand soms.

12.03.2026, 09:17
Economy

Attack on Iran. More than 30 countries will release 400 million barrels of oil.

In response to the escalation of the situation in Iran, the members of the International Energy Agency (IEA) have decided to release 400 million barrels of oil from their strategic reserves to stabilize the global market. This information was published in the agency's official statement. The decision to release oil was made at an extraordinary meeting of IEA members aimed at reducing price instability caused by the conflict in the Middle East.

12.03.2026, 09:14
Exchange rates for March 12
Economy / Exclusive

Exchange rates for March 12

The National Bank of Kyrgyzstan has presented updated foreign exchange rates against the som as of March 12. According to information from the regulator, the current values are as follows: - US Dollar (USD) — 87.45 soms;

12.03.2026, 08:43
Economy

The business of Kyrgyzstan invested nearly $82 million in other EAEU countries.

According to information provided by the press service of the Eurasian Economic Commission, in the first half of 2025, Kyrgyz business directed nearly $82 million to other EAEU countries. Of this amount, $69.9 million was invested in Russia, while Kazakhstan received $11.2 million. Belarus, on the other hand, received $0.8 million.

11.03.2026, 21:58
A Taxpayer Rating Will Be Introduced in Kyrgyzstan
Economy

A Taxpayer Rating Will Be Introduced in Kyrgyzstan

Companies with high positions will receive additional benefits A taxpayer rating system is planned to be implemented in Kyrgyzstan, as announced by Kubanychbek Isabekov, Deputy Chairman of the State Tax Service, on the air of "Birinchi Radio". According to him, the government is currently developing a draft of the corresponding resolution. This system will cover both small and large businesses. The rating will be formed based on a number of criteria, including full and timely payment

11.03.2026, 19:45
How Does the Conflict in the Middle East Affect Oil Prices?
Economy

How Does the Conflict in the Middle East Affect Oil Prices?

Investors can take advantage of the current market fluctuations in several ways. At the beginning of 2026, conflicts in the Middle East escalated, contributing to increased geopolitical tension and a significant rise in prices for key energy resources. How does this rise in oil and other asset prices affect investors under the current conditions? The conflict intensified at the end of February 2026, when the United States and Israel conducted airstrikes on Iran, prompting retaliatory actions

11.03.2026, 18:11
The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic conducted a currency intervention of 140 million dollars
Economy

The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic conducted a currency intervention of 140 million dollars

This is already the fourth intervention in 2026 The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic carried out a currency intervention amounting to 140 million dollars, as reported in the press release of the financial regulator. This operation was conducted on March 10 of this year and became the fourth such action since the beginning of 2026. The purpose of these interventions is to smooth out sharp fluctuations in the currency market. photo www

11.03.2026, 18:09
Kyrgyzstan invested nearly 82 million dollars in other EAEU countries
Economy

Kyrgyzstan invested nearly 82 million dollars in other EAEU countries

The largest portion of investments went to Russia In the first half of 2025, Kyrgyzstan directed about 82 million dollars towards investments in other EAEU countries, according to information provided by the Eurasian Economic Commission. The largest share of these investments was allocated to Russia, amounting to 69.9 million dollars. Kazakhstan ranked second with 11.2 million dollars, while Belarus rounded out the top three with 800 thousand dollars. Photo www

11.03.2026, 17:27
Aluminum Profile and Casting Products Plant Launched in Kyrgyzstan
Economy

Aluminum Profile and Casting Products Plant Launched in Kyrgyzstan

Photo of the National Investment Agency under the President of the Kyrgyz Republic. The aluminum profile factory has opened in Kyrgyzstan A modern production line for the production of aluminum profiles and casting products has been launched at the enterprise LLC "Stilex". The opening of the factory became known thanks to the press service of the National Investment Agency under the President of Kyrgyzstan. Ravshanbek Sabirov, the head of the agency, familiarized himself with the

11.03.2026, 16:59
Tariff for Electricity in Kyrgyzstan: Social Accessibility and System Sustainability
Economy / Exclusive

Tariff for Electricity in Kyrgyzstan: Social Accessibility and System Sustainability

Currently, electricity tariffs for the population in Kyrgyzstan remain at a social level. These tariffs have been below the actual production cost for a long time, forcing the government to compensate the difference from the budget, thus creating financial difficulties in the energy sector. In recent years, significant changes have been observed in the country's energy sector. Progress has been particularly noticeable after the revision of the tariff policy in 2023, which has activated

11.03.2026, 16:40