Retail Trade in Uzbekistan Grows 25.4% in Q1 2026

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Uzbekistan recorded strong growth in retail and food service sectors in January–March 2026, with retail trade turnover reaching 123,961.9 billion soums, an increase of 25.4% compared to the same period last year, according to official data.

As of 1 April 2026, there were 86,965 commercial enterprises operating in retail trade. Of these, 438 were large enterprises, while 86,527 were small enterprises and microfirms. Small businesses account for the majority of the sector’s turnover.

Large retail enterprises generated 21,115.5 billion soums in turnover during the first quarter, growing by 28.0%. At the same time, small businesses and individual entrepreneurs generated 102,846.4 billion soums, increasing by 24.9% and remaining the key driver of the sector.

In wholesale trade, 53,278 commercial enterprises were operating as of April 1, 2026, including 418 large companies and 52,860 small enterprises and microfirms. Total wholesale turnover in January–March amounted to 109,857.4 billion soums, up 10.9% year on year.

Large enterprises accounted for 30,692.5 billion soums in wholesale turnover, with growth of 4.9%, while small businesses generated 79,164.9 billion soums, rising by 13.4%. Their share reached 72.1% of total wholesale trade, confirming the dominant role of small enterprises in the country’s distribution system.

In the food service sector, 27,312 enterprises were active as of April 1, 2026, including 135 large businesses and 27,177 small enterprises and microfirms.

Sector turnover in January–March reached 49,804.5 billion soums, increasing by 8.2% compared to the same period last year. Small businesses accounted for 78.9% of total food service turnover, while large enterprises made up 21.1%.

Overall figures indicate a high concentration of commercial activity in the small business segment, which continues to dominate retail, wholesale, and food service sectors across Uzbekistan.