Kyrgyzstan Economy Watch: Kyrgyzstan’s GDP hit 960 billion soms in H1 2026, up 11.9% year-on-year, with construction surging 69.6% and industry rising 12.8%—a clear boost for manufacturing and mining. Fuel Security: The Cabinet approved an indefinite ban on exporting crude oil and petroleum products by road and rail to protect domestic supply, with exceptions for specific processed fuels and standard vehicle tanks. Bishkek Infrastructure: Residents in southern Bishkek complain about night-time school construction noise, while the city hall also suspended commercial activity in Old Bishkek’s complex over commissioning and compliance issues. Water for Agriculture: Kyrgyzstan plans 106 new water reservoirs by 2030 and is pushing water-management upgrades to raise irrigation output and farm productivity. Agro-Industrial Deals: Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan agreed to move from talks to joint agricultural projects, including rice, seeds, potatoes, and livestock breeding. Regional Connectivity: The China-proposed Belt and Road network is accelerating freight flows across Central Asia, and the EU is preparing a 2026–2027 connectivity and security agenda with the region. Trade Corridor Funding: The U.S. State Department confirmed Konstantin Sokolov as chair of the TRIPP+ fund (over $200m) targeting transport, energy infrastructure, and critical minerals across Central Asia and the South Caucasus.