News of Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek and Osh — latest events today
The antimonopoly agency threatened restaurants and cafes with fines for expensive menus
Economy

The antimonopoly agency threatened restaurants and cafes with fines for expensive menus

Complaints have been received by the editorial office of VB.KG from residents of Bishkek regarding the rising prices of dishes in restaurants and cafes following the cancellation of the service charge. In response to these concerns, we reached out to the Antimonopoly Regulation Service under the Ministry of Economy and Commerce of the Kyrgyz Republic, where the situation was commented on by Chairman Jenaly Orozbaev.

13.01.2026, 17:03
The Railways of Kyrgyzstan Achieve Record Transportation Volumes
Economy / Exclusive

The Railways of Kyrgyzstan Achieve Record Transportation Volumes

The length of the Kyrgyz railway is 424.6 km, and it plays a crucial role in the country's transport infrastructure. This network provides a strategic connection between Kyrgyzstan and the railway systems of neighboring countries, as well as facilitating the development of international trade and passenger transportation. The railway network of the republic consists of two isolated sections: the northern section, 323.4 km long, connects Rybalche with TurkSib in Kazakhstan, serving as an

13.01.2026, 15:44
Economy

In Kazakhstan, a drought and water shortage are forecasted for 2026

Today, January 13, Kazakhstan's Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Nurzhan Nurzhigitov voiced a troubling forecast regarding the country's water supply. According to information provided by Tengrinews, a sharp decrease in water inflow to rivers is expected in the southern regions. Nurzhigitov noted that the water level in reservoirs on the upper reaches of the Syr Darya River in neighboring countries is 3.2 billion cubic meters lower than during the same period last year. In

13.01.2026, 14:30
Economy

Dastan Bekeshev Reminded of Past Failures When Public Services Were Outsourced

Dastan Bekeshev, a deputy of the Jogorku Kenesh, expressed his concerns regarding the possible transfer of state and municipal services to private companies. He noted that this could jeopardize the security of citizens' personal data. Today, January 13, during the first reading, a draft law was reviewed that proposes outsourcing part of the services provided by state institutions.

13.01.2026, 14:22
Economy

Some public services are set to be transferred to private companies. How much could tariffs increase?

The Cabinet of Ministers is initiating a bill to transfer a number of state and municipal services to private companies. This proposal was discussed today, January 13, at a meeting of the Constitutional Legislation Committee of the Jogorku Kenesh, where the project was reviewed in its first reading. According to the explanatory note, the state currently provides many services for free, but budgetary constraints do not always allow for meeting the demands of all citizens in need of these

13.01.2026, 14:06
Cafes and restaurants will be checked due to complaints about rising prices – Antimonopoly
Economy / Exclusive

Cafes and restaurants will be checked due to complaints about rising prices – Antimonopoly

In connection with the rise in prices for dishes in restaurants and cafes, punitive measures are expected. This was announced by Zhenaly Orozbaev, chairman of the Antimonopoly Regulation Service, in an interview with the Kabar agency. According to him, as of January 1, a new regulation has come into effect in the country, abolishing service charges in public catering establishments. Currently, complaints are being received from customers.

13.01.2026, 13:56
Economy

New Benefits Will Be Provided for the Sewing and Textile Industry

The State Tax Service (STS) announces the introduction of new benefits for the sewing and textile industry, according to a law adopted in Kyrgyzstan on December 31, 2025. According to this law, starting from January 1, 2026, enterprises in this sector will pay insurance contributions of 12% of 40% of the average monthly salary for each employee. This amounts to 2,115.5 soms. Additionally, the income tax will be 1% of the average monthly salary, which is 440.7 soms. In total, the overall amount

13.01.2026, 13:54
Economy

New Benefits for the Sewing and Textile Industry Have Emerged

The State Tax Service of the Kyrgyz Republic informs that in accordance with the Law of the Kyrgyz Republic "On Amendments to Certain Legislative Acts of the Kyrgyz Republic in the Field of Taxation, Social Insurance, and Non-Tax Revenues," a reduction in tax rates for the sewing and textile industry is provided. According to the innovations, until January 1, 2030, a unified insurance contribution rate of 12% has been introduced for all participants in the sewing and textile industry,

13.01.2026, 13:47
Economy

In Kyrgyzstan, requirements for participants in the virtual asset market will be tightened

The Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic has approved a resolution aimed at improving the regulation of the virtual assets sector and creating stable conditions for the development of the cryptocurrency market. According to the new document, all existing service providers related to virtual assets must align their minimum charter capital requirements with the established criteria by March 1, 2026, as outlined in the regulations for the activities of virtual asset trading operators

13.01.2026, 12:47
New Life for Uranium Lands: IAEA Launches Plan for Central Asia
Economy

New Life for Uranium Lands: IAEA Launches Plan for Central Asia

For over half a century, Central Asia has been a key source of uranium for the Soviet Union. Here, not only was ore mined, but raw materials from other countries were also processed. As a result, significant volumes of radioactive waste were generated, which are stored in dumps and tailings. By 1995, most mines had ceased operations, but reclamation efforts remained at a low level. This remaining legacy poses a serious threat to human health and the ecosystem; in particular, there is a risk of

13.01.2026, 10:04
Exchange rates in commercial banks of Kyrgyzstan as of January 13
Economy

Exchange rates in commercial banks of Kyrgyzstan as of January 13

The data obtained is based on information from commercial bank websites. If you have questions about the presented data, it is recommended to contact the banks directly. The information is current as of the time of publication. Please note that the indicated rates apply to cash currency exchange and may change throughout the day.

13.01.2026, 09:46
Economy

"Bakay Bank" has updated its management team

At the extraordinary general meeting of shareholders of OJSC "Bakay Bank," held on December 22, 2025, a decision was made to reform the management and update the leadership composition. This information was disseminated by the Kyrgyz Stock Exchange. In the bank, it was noted that they are transitioning to a management model typical for large international financial organizations, where the functions of ownership and operational management are clearly separated.

13.01.2026, 09:27
Economy

New Online Shopping Rules in the EAEU Countries Will Come into Effect on July 1, 2026

The Council of the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC) has approved new conditions for the import of goods purchased by individuals on foreign marketplaces. According to the official website of the EEC, these rules will come into effect on July 1, 2026. According to the new regulations, the threshold for duty-free import of goods is set at 200 euros, and this limit may be revised in the future. If the purchase amount exceeds this threshold, a customs duty of 5% of the purchase value will be

13.01.2026, 07:50
Economy

Who received apartments from GIK in the "Muras" complex? Video report

Just four years ago, Colony No. 47 was located at 91 Malikov Street in Bishkek. Now, this territory joyfully welcomes new residents who have received the keys to their apartments built under the state mortgage program. On December 12, 1,080 families became owners of new housing — this is the second phase of occupancy for the residential complex "Muras," which includes 39 blocks and 4,754 apartments. It is expected that by the end of the year, about 2,700 more families will also

12.01.2026, 20:36
Economy

How much did the maintenance of the presidential administration cost in 2025?

According to the latest data, from January to December 2025, the expenses of the President's Administration of Kyrgyzstan amounted to 849.9 million soms against a planned 867.3 million soms. These figures were obtained from the analysis of the "Open Budget" information. Of the total amount, 139.2 million soms were allocated for basic salaries, 137.9 million soms for bonuses, and contributions and deductions for social needs amounted to 79.6 million soms. Additional payments and

12.01.2026, 16:58
Economy

In Kyrgyzstan, the excise tax rate on alcohol has been increased (number)

Starting from January 1, 2026, an increase in excise tax rates on alcoholic beverages will come into effect. This was reported by the press service of the State Tax Service of Kyrgyzstan. According to the resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers adopted on December 18, 2025, the excise tax on alcohol will be raised gradually from January 1, 2026, until January 1, 2029. From January 1, 2026, the excise tax rate on vodka will be 200 soms per liter, the official statement notes.

12.01.2026, 16:51
Economy

EEC changes rules for importing goods from foreign marketplaces. This will also affect Kyrgyzstan.

The Council of the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC) has adopted new rules regarding the import of goods purchased by individuals on foreign marketplaces. According to the official statement from the EEC, with the introduction of the new regulations, if the established threshold is exceeded, a duty of 5% of the value will be applied to the goods, as well as a minimum of one euro per kilogram. Special tariffs are provided for certain categories of goods, such as automobiles. Currently, orders

12.01.2026, 16:16
Economy

In Kyrgyzstan, excise tax rates on alcohol will increase starting in 2026

Starting from January 1, 2026, new excise tax rates on alcoholic products will come into effect in Kyrgyzstan. This was reported by the State Tax Service of the country. This increase in excise taxes became possible due to a resolution adopted by the Cabinet of Ministers on December 18, 2025. According to the document, a phased increase in the excise tax on alcohol is planned from 2026 to 2029.

12.01.2026, 15:50
Economy

How Much Meat Prices Have Increased in Kyrgyzstan Over the Year. Official Data

As of January 9, 2023, the average price of a kilogram of beef in Kyrgyzstan was 711.56 soms, lamb was 704.98 soms, and horse meat was 671.61 soms. This data was provided by the National Statistical Committee as part of price monitoring. If we analyze the changes compared to January 9 of last year, beef has increased in price by an average of 90.25 soms, lamb by 113.72 soms, and horse meat by 129.78 soms.

12.01.2026, 15:44
In Kyrgyzstan, the first domestic ground kamikaze robot has been tested
Economy

In Kyrgyzstan, the first domestic ground kamikaze robot has been tested

The company Nanospace has demonstrated successful results from testing its new ground robotic complex, named "Karakurt." During the trials, the details of which were published online, the robot showcased its effectiveness by using the TM-62 anti-tank mine and confirmed all declared tactical and technical characteristics.

12.01.2026, 15:31
From January 18, new rules for the detention of cash will be implemented at the EAEU border.
Economy

From January 18, new rules for the detention of cash will be implemented at the EAEU border.

Starting from January 18, 2026, Kazakhstan will introduce new rules regarding the detention of cash at the border of the Eurasian Economic Union. These changes, approved by the order of the Minister of Finance on December 30, 2025, are aimed at combating money laundering and the financing of terrorism. According to information received from law enforcement and financial authorities, government agencies will act in accordance with the new regulations, as reported by Lada.kz, citing zakon.kz.

12.01.2026, 15:25
The price of gold has once again reached a historical maximum, exceeding $4,600 per ounce.
Economy

The price of gold has once again reached a historical maximum, exceeding $4,600 per ounce.

Photo from the internet New historical highs in global gold markets were recorded against the backdrop of ongoing geopolitical tensions. During today's trading, the price of the precious metal rose above $4,600 per troy ounce for the first time, according to information from Reuters. The reasons for this increase include a growing demand for safe-haven assets and expectations of a loosening of monetary policy in the United States. Investors continue to seek refuge in gold, viewing it as a

12.01.2026, 15:19
A batch of heavy mining equipment has been delivered to the Togolok field
Economy

A batch of heavy mining equipment has been delivered to the Togolok field

A new batch of specialized heavy machinery has arrived at the Togolok gold ore deposit, where Kumtor Operating Company CJSC is conducting its activities. According to information from company representatives, the machinery will be used to perform various tasks related to the development of the deposit, which has strategic importance for the mining industry of Kyrgyzstan.

12.01.2026, 15:18
Economy

The World Bank identified a key issue in the fight against climate disasters in Kyrgyzstan

In Kyrgyzstan, there is a significant problem with the lack of financial resources for implementing measures to respond to serious climate disasters, such as severe flooding. This is mentioned in the World Bank's Country Report on Climate and Development, which can be found here. The necessary level of funding is determined by comparing planned budgets with estimated commitments based on assessments of the need for government support. According to current data from the World Bank,

12.01.2026, 14:51
Economy

The new JSC "Berekett Bank" has joined the deposit protection system

As of December 30, JSC "Berekett Bank" officially became part of the registry of participants in the deposit protection system. This information was made public by the Deposit Protection Agency of Kyrgyzstan. Agency representatives explained that the deposit protection system is designed to ensure the safety of depositors of banks, microfinance institutions, and housing savings credit companies that have a license from the National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic to accept deposits. In

12.01.2026, 14:51
The GNS answered farmers' questions at the fair in Bishkek
Economy

The GNS answered farmers' questions at the fair in Bishkek

An article titled "Participants of the fair in Bishkek are waiting for clarifications and assistance from the tax service" was published on VB.KG, discussing changes in the tax legislation of Kyrgyzstan that came into effect on January 1, 2026. In particular, these changes relate to the registration and operation of businesses, tax obligations, the opening of individual entrepreneurs, as well as the use of patents and QR codes, which are relevant for farmers and agricultural product

12.01.2026, 13:37
"Salyk Service" implemented AI and simplified tax reports for citizens
Economy

"Salyk Service" implemented AI and simplified tax reports for citizens

The State Enterprise "Salyk Service" announced important results of its work over the past four years. The leading outcomes include the complete digitalization of tax reports and the implementation of remote tax payments through the platform cabinet.salyk.kg and the Salyk mobile application. Additionally, the service has begun to use artificial intelligence for data analysis, which has significantly increased operational efficiency. Plans for 2026 include the integration of AI into

12.01.2026, 12:46
Government support for the agricultural sector in the Kyrgyz Republic has reached a new level – Ministry of Agriculture
Economy / Exclusive

Government support for the agricultural sector in the Kyrgyz Republic has reached a new level – Ministry of Agriculture

Starting from 2025, the agricultural sector in Kyrgyzstan will receive support at a new level. Previously, there were only two programs offering preferential loans, but now their number has increased to five: FSH-13, CAPK, FOTP, as well as projects for breeding and seed production. This information was provided by the Ministry of Agriculture of the Kyrgyz Republic. For 2025, 12 billion 242 million soms were planned, of which 11 billion 369 million soms have already been financed. Thus, the

12.01.2026, 12:30
Economy

Artificial Intelligence Used in Tax Audits in Kyrgyzstan

According to information provided by the press service of the State Tax Service, in 2026, the State Enterprise "Salyk Service" plans to use artificial intelligence for desk tax audits. In its report on activities since its establishment, the institution noted that over four years, numerous digital solutions have been implemented, such as the digitization of all types of tax reporting and the ability to pay taxes remotely through the platform cabinet.salyk.kg and the Salyk mobile

12.01.2026, 12:27
Economy

Re-registration of Individual Entrepreneurs now takes up to 10 minutes

In Kyrgyzstan, the tax service has launched a new online service for the re-registration of individual entrepreneurs on the platform Cabinet.salyk.kg. This information was announced by the agency's press service. With the help of the new solution, entrepreneurs can change their registration details without visiting the tax authorities in person. Previously, the process took two to three working days, but now it has become fully automated and takes only 5-10 minutes.

12.01.2026, 11:43
Economy

The President commented on the cost of mortgage housing in Kyrgyzstan

At the key handover event for residents of the "Muras" residential complex by the State Mortgage Company, President Sadyr Japarov explained the cost of mortgage apartments offered by the government. According to him, the cost per square meter of housing being built in Bishkek and the Chui region is approximately $700, after which these properties are transferred to the State Mortgage Company. The president noted that the State Mortgage Company adds about $250 per square meter to this

12.01.2026, 11:18
Exchange rates in commercial banks of Kyrgyzstan as of January 12
Economy

Exchange rates in commercial banks of Kyrgyzstan as of January 12

Information provided on the websites of commercial banks can be used as a reference. If you have questions regarding the data, it is recommended to contact the bank directly. The exchange rates are current as of the time of publication and are intended for cash transactions. Please note that rates may change throughout the day.

12.01.2026, 10:06
Economy

Proposal to Extend the Ban on the Export of Scrap and Waste of Ferrous Metals from Kyrgyzstan

The Ministry of Economy and Commerce of the Kyrgyz Republic has proposed to extend the temporary ban on the export of scrap and waste of ferrous metals. The draft resolution has been submitted for public discussion. What does the proposal include?According to the draft, the temporary ban on the export of scrap, waste of ferrous metals, and ingots for remelting (charge ingots) will be extended for another six months. The restrictions apply to goods classified under code 7204 of the EAEU Customs

12.01.2026, 09:51
500 million soms allocated for the organization of the VI World Nomad Games
Economy

500 million soms allocated for the organization of the VI World Nomad Games

The Minister of Culture of the Kyrgyz Republic announced the financial support for the VI World Nomad Games, for which 500 million soms have been allocated. The main events will traditionally take place in the Issyk-Kul region, where an ethno-village will be built, as well as at the Cholpon-Ata racetrack, where equestrian competitions will be held. The ministry also plans to involve the Center for Nomadic Civilization, located in the village of Ornok, and the cultural complex "Rukh

12.01.2026, 09:01