EBRD backs Big-Family-Pharm expansion in Uzbekistan with US$ 10 million loan

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is financing the expansion of Big-Family-Pharm (BFP), the operator of the Akmal Pharm pharmacy chain in Uzbekistan’s Fergana Valley, with a loan of up to US$ 10 million (€8.7 million). The funding aims to improve access to licensed medical products across the country, according to a press release issued on 23 June 2026. The project will enable the opening of 100 new pharmacies and contribute to greater transparency and governance in the sector. It marks another step in the EBRD’s continued engagement with Uzbekistan’s private sector. The initiative supports both retail growth and sectoral modernization.

BFP currently operates 86 retail pharmacies across the Tashkent, Andijan, and Fergana regions of Uzbekistan. Akmal Pharm is the largest pharmacy chain in Uzbekistan’s part of the Fergana Valley. The company’s regional footprint forms the basis for the planned expansion. The EBRD’s engagement aligns with its broader investment focus on private entrepreneurship in the country. This project builds on that strategic direction.

The EBRD loan will fund the company’s growth plans, including the opening of 100 new pharmacies. Proceeds will be used to renovate premises and procure specialist equipment and medicines. As part of the project, BFP plans to adopt World Health Organization Good Pharmacy Practice (GPP) standards, which guarantee optimal, evidence-based care. The adoption of these standards is expected to contribute to the improvement of pharmacy standards in Uzbekistan. The project combines commercial growth with sectoral upgrading.

With technical support from the EBRD, BFP will roll out a new training program on GPP and soft skills for employees. The company will also develop a strategy to modernize and digitalize its training center. These measures aim to strengthen workforce capacity within the chain. Training and digital tools will form the basis of the modernization plan. The technical cooperation complements the financial support.

To date, the EBRD has invested almost US$ 6.9 billion (€6 billion) in Uzbekistan through 210 projects, with most of the funds supporting private entrepreneurship. Uzbekistan has been the leading recipient of EBRD funding in Central Asia for each of the past six years. The Big-Family-Pharm project adds to this growing portfolio. It reflects the EBRD’s sustained focus on private sector development in the country. The initiative reinforces the bank’s role in Uzbekistan’s economic transformation.