A changing opportunity for the IT and BPO sectors • Forbes Georgia

The Outsourcing Uzbekistan conference was held in Tbilisi as a result of the strong ties between Georgia and Uzbekistan. The two countries have a history of cooperation through joint ventures including cultural exchanges and significant economic partnerships. This established relationship highlights the potential of connections, especially in the growing areas of information technology and business process outsourcing (BPO).

Uzbekistan has similarities with Georgia in terms of culture and strategic location, which connects Eastern Europe with Central Asia. Their unique position has led to the emergence of economies characterized by diversity and entrepreneurial vigor. Nevertheless, differences in resources have affected their landscapes in different ways. Despite its potential, Georgia faces challenges such as market size, intense competition and bureaucratic obstacles that hamper its development.

On the other hand, Uzbekistan benefits from its population of over 60% and a thriving education system that produces 125,000 qualified and employable IT specialists annually. With government support and fewer bureaucratic hurdles compared to Georgia, Uzbekistan is becoming a destination for companies looking to expand their outsourcing capabilities.

The Uzbekistan Outsourcing Conference aimed to address these opportunities through a comprehensive program designed for senior management, business development managers and FDI consultants. During the conference, Georgian companies learned about Uzbekistan’s favorable tax environment, which offers 0% rates on corporate taxes, social security, real estate and land taxes. They contacted a group of 20 million working-age people, many of whom were fluent in English. Participants also learned about the multiple-entry visa available for up to three years for investors, founders and IT specialists. They discovered how to start a business in 3-6 weeks with extensive support and benefited from free office space for a year, along with salary reimbursement and professional development opportunities. Additionally, they gained knowledge about penetrating the Central Asian market by joining the IT-Park for service-oriented companies.

The conference provided participants with a key platform to forge new partnerships, understand the full range of incentives offered by Uzbekistan, and ultimately leverage the strategic advantages that Uzbekistan’s economy offers. Amid Georgia’s ongoing struggles with financing and talent acquisition, Uzbekistan’s willingness to provide significant resources and skilled labor has made this conference a must-attend event for those looking to diversify and strengthen their outsourcing business.