In this chapter
- How the two cities differ for business
- Which kinds of business fit each city
9.1The two cities compared
| Tashkent | Samarkand | |
|---|---|---|
| Market | Capital, about 3.2 million people; headquarters of banks, ministries and most large companies | Second city; tourism, education, food processing, trade; hosted the UNESCO General Conference in 2025 |
| Costs | Highest office rents and salaries in the country | Noticeably cheaper offices and payroll; shorter commutes |
| People | Largest pool of English-speaking accountants, lawyers and developers | Smaller pool, loyal and affordable staff; strong universities |
| State services | The same national systems | The same national systems, often shorter queues |
| Best for | Head office, finance, IT, daily contact with ministries or big clients | Tourism, education, manufacturing, regional trade, back offices |
Checklist
- I know where my customers and my staff will be
- I have a real legal address in the city I choose
Common questions
Is it harder to register a company in Samarkand than in Tashkent?
No. Registration, tax and reporting run through the same national online systems in both cities.
Want us to do it for you?
iBookkeeper registers companies for foreign and local founders and keeps their books afterwards. We talk it through in English, Uzbek or Russian first; once we agree, we sign a paper contract.
Sources
- Statistics Agency — population of Tashkent (2026)
- Yuz.uz — the 43rd UNESCO General Conference in Samarkand (2025)
This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice for your situation. Figures are current on the date shown and change; confirm them before you act.