Uzbekistan takes an unexpected place in the global innovation ranking

Another important development has been recorded in the global innovation field. According to the Global Innovation Index 2025 published by the UN, Uzbekistan has been recognized as the most advanced country among Central Asian states.

The report notes that since 2011 Switzerland has remained the absolute leader of the ranking. Sweden comes second, while the United States takes third place. Also included in the top ten are South Korea, Singapore, the United Kingdom, Finland, the Netherlands, and Denmark. China, by overtaking Germany, has risen to 10th place, which has drawn particular attention.

Experts emphasize that in 2024 alone, China accounted for about one-quarter of all international patent applications. This figure is comparable to the combined share of the United States, Japan, and Germany. However, in these three countries, there has been a downward trend in recent years. Ownership of patents is regarded as an important indicator of a country’s technological capacity and economic power.

The results across Central Asia are also noteworthy. Uzbekistan ranked 79th among 139 countries. Kazakhstan took 81st place, Kyrgyzstan 96th, and Tajikistan 108th. Turkmenistan was not included in the ranking at all.

Particular attention is being paid to Uzbekistan’s results. In 2024, the country was in 83rd place among 132 states, but this year its ranking improved by several positions. Specifically, in the sub-index “Investments in innovation,” Uzbekistan ranked 69th, higher compared to the previous year. However, in the sub-index “Innovation outputs,” the country fell to 92nd place.

According to the analysis, in the short term Uzbekistan showed improvement in 8 indicators, while 3 indicators worsened.

Experts believe that in recent years the country has taken steps to form an innovation-friendly environment through simplified visa procedures, infrastructure development, and attracting foreign investments. At the same time, in the long run, investments in science and research may further enhance Uzbekistan’s innovation potential.

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