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!