Key Priorities for the Development of Islamic Finance Discussed in Samarkand

On October 27–28, the Samarkand Islamic Finance Forum 2026 (SIFF 2026) was held in Samarkand, with representatives of the Republican Stock Exchange “Toshkent” among the participants.

The forum brought together more than 400 participants from 18 countries to discuss the development of Islamic finance in Central Asia, the introduction of new financial instruments, improvements to regulatory frameworks, and the expansion of regional cooperation.

One of the key areas of discussion was the development of Islamic capital markets and liquidity management instruments. International experts exchanged views on the introduction of sukuk, the establishment of market infrastructure, the expansion of investment opportunities, and the application of international best practices in local markets.

Türkiye’s experience was also highlighted during the discussions. According to information presented at the forum, the share of Islamic financing in Türkiye’s debt capital market increased from 0% to 16% over the past five years. Uzbekistan is also aiming to achieve at least a comparable result in this area.

Participation in the forum provided representatives of the Republican Stock Exchange “Toshkent” with an opportunity to explore international experience in introducing sukuk and other Islamic financial instruments to Uzbekistan’s capital market, as well as approaches to developing market infrastructure and improving regulatory frameworks.