On April 10, 2025, the Tokmok City Hall hosted an informational and consultative meeting as part of the national campaign "Business Enlightenment Caravan." The open dialogue format between government officials and entrepreneurs once again proved its relevance: around 300 participants took part in the event, including representatives of local authorities, small and medium-sized businesses, and business associations.
A wide range of topics was discussed — from tax administration and regulatory changes to social benefits and subleasing at markets. Entrepreneurs raised the issue of the number of inspection bodies. A representative of a business association noted:
"Our association was established in 2021 when a wave of inspections and fines overwhelmed businesses. We understand the importance of oversight, but perhaps it's time to reconsider the number of inspecting bodies. The simpler and clearer the rules, the more transparent the economy becomes."
In response, government representatives reminded participants that the number of supervisory agencies was previously reduced from 21 to 10, and the current figure (17) is due to structural changes in the government.
"We are working on optimization. There are proposals and practices for merging functions, and options for reducing the number and frequency of inspections are under consideration," organizers explained.
Tax-related issues were among the most discussed. Clarifications were provided regarding the transition from the unified tax to the patent system, rules on subleasing in markets, garbage tax payments, and the mechanism of voluntary business legalization.
"We've moved away from punitive practices — prevention is now the priority. Where there were once fines, we now issue reminders and guidance," said representatives of the tax authorities.
Important social issues were also addressed: payments to families with persons with disabilities; the cancellation of the vehicle tax; pension entitlements for those caring for people with disabilities; and the possibility of writing off tax debts accrued before January 1, 2022, if no court cases are involved.
The issue of issuing fiscal documents at markets and retail outlets also came up:
"Goods are being brought here from large markets in Bishkek, but invoices are often not issued. This creates unfair competition. If we don't resolve this collectively, the shadow market will only grow," entrepreneurs emphasized.
Government bodies expressed their readiness for continued cooperation, encouraging the business community not to shy away from voicing their concerns directly.
"If there are unscrupulous tenants who avoid taxes or refuse to pay contributions to housing cooperatives — report it. Let’s work together," urged representatives of the prosecutor’s office and local authorities.
It was also announced that Tokmok residents can contact the city prosecutor’s office for any issues related to protecting entrepreneurs’ rights at the service number: 755 222339.
The “Business Education Caravan” campaign continues: after its stop in Chuy region, meetings will take place in other parts of the country, bringing together the efforts of the state and business to foster a sustainable and transparent business environment.
Parallel to the panel sessions, entrepreneurs could receive individual consultations in the theater's foyer. Consultation zones were organized with representatives from development funds, state banks, and insurance companies.
The next stops of the Caravan: Kara-Balta — April 15, Bishkek — April 16.
The campaign is organized by the JIA Business Association and the Secretariat of the Investment Council under the Cabinet of Ministers of the Kyrgyz Republic, with the support of the Plenipotentiary Representatives of the President in the regions, the Ministry of Economy and Commerce, the General Prosecutor’s Office, the Ministry of Labor, Social Security and Migration, the State Tax Service under the Ministry of Finance, the Center for Public-Private Partnership under NAIA, the Department of Tourism under the Ministry of Economy and Commerce, the Land and Water Oversight Service under the Ministry of Water Resources, Agriculture and Processing Industry, the EBRD, the OSCE Program Office, UNDP, and the Center for Business Support..