AI regulation in Kyrgyzstan (2026)

Chapter 23 of the Digital Code (adopted 18 June 2025, entering force six months after signing) sets out principles for AI system design, development, and use, and defines limitations and responsibilities for AI actors. It is not a standalone AI law but forms part of a unified digital governance statute.

Kyrgyzstan deliberately chose a 'more carrot than stick' approach, granting control over sector-specific AI standards, ethics, and operational rules to self-regulatory organisations rather than to government regulators. AIDA (Association of AI System Proprietors and Developers) was established alongside the Digital Code to serve as the primary SRO.

A National Council for the Development of Artificial Intelligence was established by Cabinet of Ministers resolution in January 2025, chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister and comprising government officials, technology experts, and private sector representatives. It functions as an advisory and coordination body, not a binding regulator.

A dedicated National Strategy on Artificial Intelligence had been announced and was described as forthcoming, but had not been formally adopted as of mid-2025. Its content is expected to inform sectoral AI deployment targets and investment priorities.

Kyrgyzstan participated in and supported the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) Model Law on Artificial Intelligence Technologies, which establishes common regional terminology and principles intended to guide member-state legislation and facilitate cross-border AI cooperation.

International organisations have noted Kyrgyzstan is in an early but active phase of AI adoption and governance-building, with public-sector AI pilots (disaster response, public-service chatbots), and significant capacity gaps remaining. The self-regulatory framework is seen as pragmatic given the nascent domestic AI industry.