The National Bank of Kyrgyzstan has proposed a new draft resolution regarding the minimum requirements for working capital for exchange offices for public discussion, as reported by economist.kg.
According to this draft, new exchange offices, as well as additional and seasonal exchange points, will need to meet the updated requirements starting from March 31, 2026.
For new exchange offices located outside of Bishkek and Osh, the National Bank plans to set the minimum amount of working capital at 2.5 million soms, while for exchange offices in Bishkek and Osh, it will be 5 million soms. Seasonal exchange offices, regardless of their location, will need to have a minimum of 1 million soms.
As for the already functioning exchange offices, the National Bank proposes a phased increase in requirements with specific deadlines:
- outside 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;
- in Bishkek and Osh: 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;
- for seasonal exchange offices: by March 31, 2026 — at least 1 million soms.
The justification for the draft states that with the increase in the volume of currency operations in the country, the regulator considers it necessary to revise the rules for exchange offices in light of financial risks, unfair practices, and transparency requirements. The phased implementation of new requirements for existing exchange offices is intended to reduce the burden and provide time for adaptation.
Comments and suggestions on the draft are accepted until February 20, 2026. After its official approval, the new resolution will come into effect 15 days after publication.
