Kyrgyzstan’s National Bank releases the country’s first domestically printed banknotes...

Kyrgyzstan’s National Bank releases the country’s first domestically printed banknotes, issuing new 20-som and 50-som notes on September 11, 2026. The move ends more than 33 years of dependence on foreign currency printers since the som was introduced in 1993. The notes are produced by Uchkun OJSC in Bishkek after major security and printing upgrades. Officials say local production cuts costs, strengthens financial sovereignty, and allows faster replacement of worn low-denomination notes. Kyrgyzstan also aims to print secure documents and currency for other countries.

Friday, 11 September, 2026