Uzbekistan Strikes Digital Gold: First Private Crypto Mining Permit Granted to NexaGrid

Uzbekistan has made it clear that it's a major player in the Central Asian crypto scene. The National Agency of Perspective Projects...

Quick overview

  • Uzbekistan has officially entered the Central Asian crypto scene by granting its first mining permit to NexaGrid, marking a shift towards a comprehensive digital asset strategy.
  • NexaGrid, led by former civil servant Toymurod Sultonov, aims to establish a sustainable digital future in Central Asia with a focus on transparency and eco-friendly practices.
  • The country has implemented strict regulations for crypto mining, including mandatory solar energy use and double tariffs for grid access, ensuring environmental protection.
  • With no income tax on crypto and a quick licensing process, Uzbekistan is positioning itself as an attractive destination for global investors in the crypto space.

Uzbekistan has made it clear that it’s a major player in the Central Asian crypto scene. The National Agency of Perspective Projects (NAPP) have given the country its first ever crypto mining permit to a home-grown outfit called NexaGrid.

This announcement marks a big shift from years of playing it cautious with regulatory “sandbox” testing to going all-in on a proper digital asset strategy. It was all made possible by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev’s determination to see this through, which has brought an end to the “wait-and-see” era for Uzbek crypto infrastructure and put the nation right up there with regional leaders like Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan.

NexaGrid: The New Kid on the Block

NexaGrid, a brand new company that’s only been around since April 2025, is going to be based in Tashkent. It’s being headed up by Toymurod Sultonov a former civil servant who decided to make the leap into the private sector – a move that reflects Uzbekistan’s broader shift towards a market driven economy.

The Lowdown On NexaGrid:

  • How much cash they’re working with: 600 million Uzbekistani sums – that’s around $47,600 to you and me.
  • What they want to achieve: Sultonov has said they’re not just in it for a quick buck, but to lay the groundwork for Central Asia’s digital future.
  • Transparency is key: NexaGrid’s license is fully verifiable with a special QR code that’s a new standard for government accountability in the region.

Tight Laces: Mining Under Tight Rules

Uzbekistan’s rules are some of the most eco-friendly in the CIS region. To even get a license, NexaGrid and anyone else who wants to follow in their footsteps has to jump through a series of hoops designed to protect the national power grid.

The Rules:

  1. Solar first: Miners have to use solar panels as much as possible before they can use the grid.
  2. Double tariff penalty: If you are allowed to use the grid, you have to pay double what everyone else does and there are extra charges during peak hours.
  3. Asset visibility: Licensed companies have to keep track of every piece of mining equipment they’ve got and every wallet they use and report that information to NAPP.
  4. Locking them down: Any crypto they “mine” in Uzbekistan can only be sold on one of the 21 licensed exchanges in the country.

A New Player in Town: The Central Asian Space Race Heats Up

Kazakhstan used to be the big cheese when it came to crypto mining in the region, but they’re struggling with some old infrastructure and energy issues. Kyrgyzstan has been doing a good job of stepping in – last year they raked in $22.8 million just from tax from their crypto mining operations.

By giving NexaGrid the green light, Uzbekistan is making up for lost time with a major advantage: they know exactly what’s going on and can plan for the future. Unlike their neighbours where you never quite know what’s going to happen next – mining has been banned, then allowed, then banned again, etc

Feature Uzbekistan (2026) Kazakhstan (2026) Kyrgyzstan (2026)
Status Fully Regulated / Solar Focused Regulated but Grid-Strained High Adoption / High Tax Revenue
Licensing Permit-based (5-year validity) State License (Complex) Registered (200+ exchanges)
Energy Policy Double Tariff for Grid Use Variable “Mining Tax” per kWh Market-based / Hydro Focus
Taxation 0% Income Tax on Crypto Tiered Corporate Tax 15% Transaction Tax

What This Means for Global Investors

NexaGrid is seen as a test case for if this whole thing can work. With no income tax on crypto and a super fast 15 day licensing process, Uzbekistan is basically waving a red carpet for foreign investors to come and get involved.

Sultonov has said that they want to create a “transparent and predictable” environment – a rare thing in crypto mining. And for anyone who’s been paying attention, it’s clear that the Bukhara region is no longer just a historic trade hub, but also the new frontier for the digital silk road.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR See More
Arslan Butt
Lead Markets Analyst – Multi-Asset (FX, Commodities, Crypto)
Arslan Butt serves as the Lead Commodities and Indices Analyst, bringing a wealth of expertise to the field. With an MBA in Behavioral Finance and active progress towards a Ph.D., Arslan possesses a deep understanding of market dynamics. His professional journey includes a significant role as a senior analyst at a leading brokerage firm, complementing his extensive experience as a market analyst and day trader. Adept in educating others, Arslan has a commendable track record as an instructor and public speaker. His incisive analyses, particularly within the realms of cryptocurrency and forex markets, are showcased across esteemed financial publications such as ForexCrunch, InsideBitcoins, and EconomyWatch, solidifying his reputation in the financial community.

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