TIFC Uzbekistan: English law and tax benefits explained

TIFC: English law, tax incentives and investment opportunities in Uzbekistan

The Tashkent International Financial Centre (TIFC), established under Presidential Decree No. UP-48 dated 30 March 2026, marks a significant step in transforming Uzbekistan into a leading financial hub in Central Asia. Designed to attract foreign direct investment and strengthen capital markets, the TIFC introduces a unique legal and regulatory environment aimed at international businesses, financial institutions, and investors.

A new financial hub in Central Asia

The Tashkent International Financial Centre (TIFC) is being developed as a modern international financial centre operating under a special legal regime. Unlike the general legal framework of Uzbekistan, the TIFC will be governed by a dedicated Constitutional Law, ensuring legal certainty, predictability, and strong investor protection. This approach aligns the TIFC with internationally recognized financial centres such as the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC).

Application of English common law in Tashkent

One of the key advantages of the TIFC is the application of English common law and principles of equity. This makes the Tashkent International Financial Centre particularly attractive to foreign investors who are familiar with the legal systems of the United Kingdom and other common law jurisdictions.

The use of English law in Uzbekistan creates a transparent and internationally understandable legal environment, reducing legal uncertainty and increasing investor confidence in cross-border transactions and financial activities.

Independent international commercial court

The Tashkent International Commercial Court will play a central role in dispute resolution within the TIFC. The court is expected to operate according to international standards and will include both a Court of First Instance and an Appellate Court.

This independent judicial system ensures that disputes involving investors, financial institutions, and companies operating in the TIFC are resolved efficiently, transparently, and free from local interference. For international business, the availability of such a court significantly enhances trust in the jurisdiction.

Regulatory autonomy and modern governance

The TIFC authorities will have substantial regulatory powers, allowing them to independently develop rules in key areas such as corporate law, financial regulation, taxation, labour relations, and data protection.

This level of autonomy enables the Tashkent International Financial Centre to adopt flexible and modern regulations that meet global standards and respond quickly to changes in international financial markets. As a result, the TIFC can position itself as a competitive financial Centre in Eurasia.

Permitted business activities in the TIFC

The TIFC supports a wide range of financial and professional activities, making it a comprehensive ecosystem for international business. These include banking, investment services, insurance, capital markets, fintech, payment systems, and digital assets. In addition, the Centre promotes emerging sectors such as Islamic finance and green finance, creating new opportunities for sustainable and Sharia-compliant investments.

Professional services such as legal advisory, consulting, auditing, and accounting will also play an important role in supporting TIFC participants.

Tax incentives until 2076

One of the strongest competitive advantages of the Tashkent International Financial Centre is its long-term tax incentive regime. Tax benefits are guaranteed until January 1, 2076, offering investors a high degree of certainty.

Participants of the TIFC may benefit from exemptions on corporate income tax, selected value-added tax (VAT) exemptions, and relief from customs duties. These incentives significantly reduce the cost of doing business in Uzbekistan and enhance the attractiveness of the TIFC compared to other financial centers in the region.

Why investors should consider the TIFC

The Tashkent International Financial Centre represents a unique gateway to investment in Uzbekistan and the wider Central Asian region. By combining English common law, an independent commercial court, regulatory flexibility, and long-term tax incentives, the TIFC creates a secure and business-friendly environment for international investors.

Supported at the highest governmental level, the Centre is expected to become a strategic platform for financial services, fintech innovation, and cross-border investment. For companies seeking access to emerging markets with strong growth potential, the TIFC offers compelling and competitive jurisdiction