As reported by the agency, this initiative is aimed at "cleansing" the market of participants who are unable to conduct transparent operations.
According to the approved plan, the minimum charter capital will increase in stages:
- from January 1, 2025 — at least 3,000,000 soms (this requirement has already come into effect),
- from July 1, 2026 — 7,000,000 soms,
- from July 1, 2027 — 14,000,000 soms,
- from July 1, 2028 — 20,000,000 soms.
“This change signifies a new reality for the market. Previously, a pawnshop could operate with minimal resources, but now the rules require that capital be sufficient to cover risks, fulfill obligations to clients, and avoid dubious practices that were previously used to compensate for a weak financial base,” the agency noted.
The press release from the State Financial Supervision Agency emphasizes that these measures are not directed against honest participants. “This is more of a filter: companies that are not ready to increase their capital and operate in accordance with the new requirements will be forced to leave the market. As a result, consolidation is expected, during which more stable players capable of implementing internal control and complying with disclosure requirements will remain,” the statement reads.
The capital increase is accompanied by other new restrictions: a ban on unilateral deterioration of contract terms, limitations on data transfer to credit bureaus, and enhanced transparency of loan conditions. Together, these measures are aimed at restructuring the industry: fewer "quick schemes," more understandable standards.
For clients, the essence of the reform is simple: the higher the financial stability of a company, the lower the likelihood of hidden fees and disputed charges. For businesses, this is a signal to prepare in advance for the key dates of 2026–2028, as capital requirements will only become stricter.
