Uzbekistan’s Uzum is proving that Central Asia isn’t just catching up—it’s arriving. The startup just bagged $65.5 million from Tencent and VR Capital, lifting its valuation to $1.5 billion. That’s a major statement. With 17 million users and 16,000 merchants, Uzum’s mix of e-commerce, fintech, and delivery is clearly working. Now, it’s eyeing bigger moves—scaling digital banking, expanding SME services, and going global. Honestly, it’s exciting to see a Tashkent-based startup punch into unicorn territory. Uzum’s rise isn’t just a local win—it’s a signal that the region’s tech scene deserves serious global attention.
Read more: TechCrunch