The leading changes in the tourism sector of Kyrgyzstan were discussed in an interview with Erdenet Kasymov, the director of the Tourism Department. He reported that within the framework of the sustainable development strategy, a decree was signed to create a State Agency for Tourism Development, which will operate under the Cabinet of Ministers. This decree was approved by President Sadyr Japarov on March 31, 2026.
In addition, a national program with criteria for sustainable tourism has been approved, aimed at improving the quality of tour operators' work and organizing festivals, as well as establishing requirements for guesthouses and yurt camps.
In 2026, an extensive reform of legislation is planned, which will take into account international experience and national interests. All these measures are aimed at improving the quality of tourist services, as reported by Erdenet Kasymov.
He added that small and medium-sized businesses are also receiving support from the government in the form of preferential loans. This year, loans are being issued at 6% for amounts up to 5 million soms. The Tourism Development Support Fund is operational, along with a number of mechanisms that promote the development of private entrepreneurship.
Kasymov talked about the opening of an airport in Karakol, which has started receiving flights from Bishkek, Osh, and Almaty. This has led to a significant increase in the flow of tourists, and this year a record number of visitors has been recorded at the base in Karakol, confirming the growing interest in winter tourism.
Also, a large project called Baytik Mountain Resort is planned to be implemented in the Chui region. Chatkal has all the conditions for the development of winter tourism, including the possibility of creating a ski base. Work will begin on the construction of the Chatkal Resort ski base in collaboration with international partners," noted Kasymov.
Expert Aisha Mambetalieva emphasized that thanks to the openness and accessibility of the tourism market in Kyrgyzstan, quality tourism products are being offered. "Unlike other countries, we are actively developing traditional, ecological, and sustainable tourism, which is a good indicator," she added.
