Monetary Policy Watch: Uzbekistan’s central bank says the economy may be overheating, with growth above potential driven by strong demand and government spending—urging restraint and keeping interest rates relatively high. US-Uzbek Business Push: President Mirziyoyev and Donald Trump discussed implementation of agreements, a three-year economic cooperation program, and the first US-Uzbek Business and Investment Council meeting, with visa-free access boosting commercial ties. Trade Facilitation: Uzbekistan and Belarus move to deepen customs cooperation, including using electronic systems for origin certification and recognizing authorized economic operators to simplify cross-border trade. AI Drive: Uzbekistan outlines an AI roadmap—improving its Global AI Readiness Index ranking and targeting top-50 status by 2030, alongside new projects and expanded computing capacity. Economic Crime: Uzbekistan’s economic crimes agency reports a tax fraud case involving companies and tax officials, citing missed VAT revenues and unreported sales. Gold Reserves: World Gold Council data shows Uzbekistan added 41 tonnes of gold in H1 2026, ranking second globally among official buyers. Food Safety & Standards: Uzbekistan and Malaysia’s palm oil industry group discuss food safety, international standards, and joint lab and training cooperation. Regional Connectivity: The China–Kyrgyzstan–Uzbekistan rail corridor advances, with experts highlighting its broader impact on Central Asia’s trade routes.