Tashkent, 22 December 2025 — Ipak Yuli Bank and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) established a direct partnership through the signing of a USD 25 million loan agreement aimed at supporting micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSME) in Uzbekistan, with a particular focus on women and young entrepreneurs. 

This agreement represents the first direct loan partnership between JICA and Ipak Yuli Bank and reflects the strong confidence of the international financial institution in the Bank’s financial stability, governance standards, and its strategic role in supporting private sector development and entrepreneurship across the country. 

The attracted funds will be directed toward strengthening MSME financing, contributing to job creation, economic diversification, and sustainable growth, while promoting financial inclusion among underserved segments of the population. 

Commenting on the signing, Saidabror Saydakhmedov, Chairman of the Management Board of Ipak Yuli Bank, stated: 

“We are pleased to expand our network of international partners through the signing of an agreement to attract direct loan financing from JICA. These funds will provide additional opportunities to support micro, small, and medium-sized businesses across the country. In particular, we will place strong emphasis on financing women and young entrepreneurs, underscoring our commitment to inclusive and sustainable economic development. We look forward to further expanding our cooperation with JICA.” 

In turn, Mr. Bito Yoshibumi, Chief Representative of the JICA Uzbekistan Office, noted: 

“We would like to express our sincere gratitude to Ipak Yuli Bank for their strong support and cooperation. We are pleased to say that this transaction has attracted great attention in both Japan and Uzbekistan. We believe that the JICA loan, together with the IFC loan, is well aligned with the priorities of the Government of Uzbekistan and will help address these important issues. It was even mentioned at the Japan–Central Asia Summit held a few days ago in Japan.”

About JICA 

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is the core institution responsible for the implementation of Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA). Since the beginning of its cooperation with the Republic of Uzbekistan, JICA has provided more than USD 3.5 billion in concessional loans, grants, and technical assistance programs. 

JICA’s projects in Uzbekistan cover priority areas such as private sector development, agriculture, infrastructure, energy, healthcare, education, and human capital development, making a significant contribution to the country’s sustainable socio-economic development.