The Independent Evaluation Department of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) conducted a comprehensive assessment of the effectiveness and outcomes of the Public-Private Dialogue (PPD) facilitated by the bank between 2017 and 2023. The analysis is based on the synthesis of over 20 evaluation reports focused on policy dialogue issues and is complemented by an updated assessment of the policy engagement structure. As part of the study, two countries were examined in detail: the Kyrgyz Republic and Serbia.

The evaluation highlights that Public-Private Dialogue (PPD) through the Investment Council in the Kyrgyz Republic has played a key role in maintaining constructive dialogue between the government and businesses, despite political changes over the years.

It is important to note that the Investment Council has been operating since 2007 and remains the only high-level platform for public-private dialogue in the country. Many initiatives and projects that are now actively implemented and functioning originated from discussions within the Council, demonstrating its effectiveness in fostering cooperation between the private sector and the government.

The EBRD has been the primary and key partner of the Investment Council since its inception, further reinforcing the bank’s commitment to fostering a sustainable and effective policy dialogue in the Kyrgyz Republic.

Results of the evaluation 

In recent years, Kyrgyzstan has placed increasing emphasis on the development of women's entrepreneurship, recognizing it as a crucial step toward gender equality and sustainable economic growth. Supporting women in business is not only a matter of social justice but also a strategic economic resource for the country.

President Sadyr Japarov has signed the Law on Amendments to the Law of the Kyrgyz Republic "On the Protection of Entrepreneurs' Rights," aimed at enhancing state support for women's entrepreneurship. This law seeks to expand access to financing, create favorable conditions for increasing female employment, and strengthen women's roles across various economic sectors.

In an interview for the Secretariat, Aziza Yuldasheva, President of the Agribusiness Association "Zher Azygy," Chairman of the Coalition for Women's Entrepreneurship Development "Demilgeluu Aiymdar," and an active member of the Investment Council, shared her perspective on the role of women in business, the challenges they face, and how new legislative initiatives can influence the development of women's entrepreneurship in Kyrgyzstan.

1. How do you assess the role of women in Kyrgyzstan's economy? In which sectors are they most active?

The economic potential of women in Kyrgyzstan remains underutilized, with only 43% of working-age women employed. Women comprise just 30.6% of leaders in small businesses, with gender parity achieved only in the trade sector (according to data from the National Statistical Committee of the Kyrgyz Republic).

Women are predominantly employed in lower-income sectors traditionally associated with female labor, such as healthcare, education, handicrafts, garment production, and trade.

2. What are the main challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in Kyrgyzstan, and how can they be overcome?

One of the primary challenges for women entrepreneurs is the lack of support and understanding from their families, making it difficult to balance business and household responsibilities. Women are 1.7 times more likely than men to close their businesses due to time constraints and family obligations.

A significant issue arises when women become mothers. Only 28% of children in Kyrgyzstan attend preschool institutions, leaving many mothers with no childcare options, making it nearly impossible to work full-time.

However, there have been positive legislative changes. Last year, a new Education Law was passed, simplifying the process of opening private kindergartens. Previously, excessive bureaucratic requirements, such as high ceiling standards and restrictions on opening in residential buildings, made it difficult to establish new preschools, especially in rural areas. By expanding the network of private kindergartens, this initiative will have a multiplier effect—more children will receive early education, new jobs will be created, and more women will be able to enter the workforce.

3. A law supporting women's entrepreneurship was recently passed. How will it benefit women in business? What specific changes do you expect?

On January 13, 2025, President Sadyr Japarov signed a Law on the Protection of Entrepreneurs' Rights, which introduced the legal definition of "women's entrepreneurship."

Currently, there is no precise data on the number of women entrepreneurs in Kyrgyzstan. With this law, the National Statistical Committee will begin collecting detailed data, allowing for more targeted and effective programs to be developed.

The National Bank of the Kyrgyz Republic has already directed commercial banks to allocate at least 30% of business loans to women entrepreneurs. Additionally, the Cabinet of Ministers recently announced a $508,400 loan program (ADB funds) specifically for female entrepreneurs, which will use the new legal definitions to ensure fair access to financing for women-owned businesses.

4. Which projects or initiatives supporting women entrepreneurs do you consider most successful?

One of the most important initiatives is the establishment of the Consultative Council for the Development of Women's Entrepreneurship under the Ministry of Economy and Commerce of the Kyrgyz Republic.

This platform facilitates dialogue between the government and women's business associations, helping to shape policies that support women's participation in the economy. On December 20, 2024, the Chairwoman of the Coalition for Women's Entrepreneurship Development was elected Deputy Chair of the Council, with the Deputy Minister of Economy and Commerce serving as Chair. This collaboration will yield tangible results in shaping policies and improving conditions for women in business.

5. What is the future of women's entrepreneurship in Kyrgyzstan? What steps are needed to support its further growth?

Global studies indicate that closing the gender gap in employment and entrepreneurship could increase global GDP by more than 20%.

In 2023, governments worldwide focused on three key areas of legal reform:
? Equal pay
? Parental rights
? Workplace protections

In Kyrgyzstan, we aim to increase women's participation in the economy to 60% by 2030. To achieve this goal, we need to develop a new state program for 2026–2030, with clear targets and indicators for supporting and expanding women's entrepreneurship.

Additionally, state-subsidized loans for female entrepreneurs, particularly in rural areas, are essential.

Looking at our neighboring countries:
? Kazakhstan provides 30% reimbursement for female entrepreneurs investing in greenhouse agriculture.
? Tajikistan has a Presidential Grant Fund for women entrepreneurs in the regions.
? Uzbekistan has introduced equal pay legislation and removed restrictions on women's employment in industries previously closed to them.

6. What advice would you give to young women starting their entrepreneurial journey?

Dear friends and sisters! Take the first step, believe in yourself!

Yes, challenges will arise, but it is better to try and fail than to regret missed opportunities.

In Kyrgyzstan, mentorship programs connect aspiring entrepreneurs with experienced businesswomen who share their insights and offer guidance. Join these programs, stay active, and become part of women's business associations!

7. March 8 symbolizes not only spring but also the strength of women. What would you like to wish the women of Kyrgyzstan on this day?

I congratulate all women in our country on International Women's Day! May you be happy, loved, supported by your family, financially stable, and successful in your businesses!

Our nation has many strong female role models—from Kurmanjan Datka to Roza Otunbayeva, Kyrgyzstan’s first female President, and countless other incredible women who have shaped our country’s history.

Let’s continue striving for progress, equality, and opportunities for all women in Kyrgyzstan!

March 7, 2025 – A meeting of the consultative group was held at the Secretariat of the Investment Council under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic, coordinated by NABA, to discuss the implementation of amendments to customs legislation in the field of e-commerce.

Key Issues Discussed:

• Updating national legislation in accordance with the new provisions of the EAEU Customs Code.
  • Establishing the Institute of E-Commerce Operators to streamline customs procedures.
  • Introducing a unified customs tariff for certain goods.
  • Discussion on the duty-free threshold and its impact on the market.
  • Reviewing the digitalization of customs administration.

New Regulations – New Opportunities

Representatives of the Ministry of Economy and Commerce of the Kyrgyz Republic, the State Customs Service, the State Tax Service, and the business community discussed how changes in customs regulation will affect entrepreneurs and logistics in the country. Particular attention was given to the need for uniform rules across all EAEU member states and the risks associated with differing national approaches.

Participants emphasized their commitment to creating transparent and business-friendly conditions. E-commerce is one of the key drivers of economic growth, and it is essential for the Kyrgyz Republic to align its regulations with international standards.

Pilot Project and Future Prospects

The possibility of reviving a pilot project on e-commerce was considered, which would allow testing new customs administration mechanisms. Candidates for e-commerce operators willing to work within the new system were also discussed.

Next Steps:

• Developing a roadmap for implementing the new regulations.
  • Establishing a working group to monitor the changes.
  • Training specialists to operate within the framework of the reforms.

The Secretariat of the Investment Council will continue to coordinate dialogue between the government and the business community to ensure the sustainable development of e-commerce in the Kyrgyz Republic.

As part of a series of broadcasts on Public-Private Dialogue (PPD) and its key role in the economy, Syimyk Taychabarov, Executive Director of the Milk Association of Kyrgyzstan and a member of the Investment Council, joined host Ermek Kurenkeev on ElTR TV to discuss investment climate issues and the simplification of administrative barriers for businesses.

Key Topics of the Discussion:

• Significance of the Dairy Sector – The dairy industry accounts for over 26% of Kyrgyzstan’s food sector, highlighting its economic importance.
  • Taxation Issues – A proposal was made to eliminate excise taxes on traditional national beverages, which could support local producers.
  • Business Feedback Mechanism – The discussion included the initiative to create an evaluation system for government agencies based on entrepreneurs’ feedback.
  • Urgent Approval of the Dairy Sector Development Concept – The need for swift adoption of a strategic document to consolidate the market and support industry growth was emphasized.
  • Export Prospects – Opportunities to expand dairy exports to the U.S., Gulf countries, and other international markets were explored.
  • Direct Dialogue with the Government – The initiative to hold an annual meeting between business representatives and the President was proposed, aiming to facilitate discussions on key development issues and accelerate solutions.

We extend our gratitude to ElTR TV for the opportunity to participate in this important discussion (link to the interview in Russian)