One in three Uzbeks has no savings – Central Bank survey

Cash payments decline, but remain common in traditional markets

The survey asked, “In what form do you usually make your daily payments?” The responses were as follows:

  • Use only cash – 15%

  • Use only a bank card – 33%

  • Use both cash and card – 52%

Cash usage remains relatively higher in Jizzakh, Andijan, Namangan, Navoi, and Samarkand regions. The majority of cash transactions take place at agricultural markets.

When asked why they prefer cash for purchases, respondents cited:

  • Most purchases are made at agricultural markets – 56%

  • Cash payments are faster, safer, and more convenient – 17%

  • Products are cheaper when paid for in cash – 13%

  • Sellers require payment in cash – 7%

  • No payment terminal available or terminal is not working – 7%

Terminal-related issues were most frequently reported in Tashkent.

Savings culture remains weak

The survey revealed that one-third of the population does not have any savings:

  • No savings at all – 34%

  • Keeps savings in cash – 23%

  • Keeps savings on a bank card – 23%

  • Keeps savings in a bank deposit – 20%

Utility payments increasingly made via mobile apps

Digital payment adoption is growing: 88% of respondents pay for utility services via mobile applications, while only 5% said they pay in cash.

ATM problems persist

A significant portion of the population – 20% – expressed dissatisfaction with ATM services. The main issues cited were:

  • Cash runs out quickly

  • ATMs are sometimes completely out of service

  • Lack of banknotes in the required denominations

Change often replaced with gum or matches

When shopping in stores:

  • 65% of respondents said they always receive proper change

  • 17% said they sometimes receive chewing gum or matches instead of change

  • 14% said they are regularly offered gum or matches in place of change

  • 4% reported not receiving any change at all

Most workers receive salaries via bank cards

The shift toward digital wages continues:

  • 87% of respondents are paid via bank card

  • 7% receive their salary in both card and cash form

  • 6% are paid only in cash

According to the Central Bank, the survey results show a steady expansion of digital payments in Uzbekistan. However, the findings also highlight low levels of financial literacy and weak saving habits among the population.