Key Proposals
Starting from March 31, 2026, the following minimum amounts of working capital will be established for new and additional exchange offices, as well as for those operating seasonally:- 2.5 million soms (for exchange offices located outside of Bishkek and Osh);
- 5 million soms - for exchange offices in Bishkek and Osh;
- 1 million soms - for seasonal exchange offices, regardless of their location.
1) For exchange offices not located in Bishkek and Osh:
- by March 31, 2026 - at least 1 million soms;
- by March 31, 2028 - at least 2 million soms;
- by March 31, 2030 - at least 3 million soms.
- by March 31, 2026 - at least 2 million soms;
- by March 31, 2028 - at least 3 million soms;
- by March 31, 2030 - at least 5 million soms.
Objectives of the Changes
The National Bank of Kyrgyzstan states that the growth in currency transaction volumes in the country necessitates a review of the rules governing the operation of exchange offices. The increase in financial risks, instances of unfair practices, and demands for transparency in operations necessitate the strengthening of regulatory requirements for increasing working capital."The draft resolution on the minimum amount of working capital for exchange offices is aimed at creating conditions for the development of this sector and improving the requirements for their operations. In light of the increase in transaction volumes, a phased increase in working capital requirements is proposed to give existing exchange offices time to adapt," the justification for the project notes.
Currently, the minimum amount of working capital for exchange offices in Kyrgyzstan is 1 million soms for legal entities opening exchange offices in Bishkek and Osh. For regional exchange offices, the amount may be 500 thousand soms, and for seasonal ones, it may also start from 500 thousand soms.
