The creative industries sector is rapidly developing worldwide, and Kyrgyzstan is no exception to this trend. The country has launched a Creative Industries Park — a unique platform aimed at supporting and stimulating the growth of creative businesses. Alongside the High Technology Park (HTP), this initiative has become a key tool in promoting startups and enterprises involved in design, art, media, IT, and other creative fields.
This article outlines what the Creative Industries Park is, what conditions it offers its residents, as well as the tax benefits and expected costs for participants.
What Is the Creative Industries Park?
The Creative Industries Park in Kyrgyzstan was established to support and promote business development in the creative sector. It offers favorable conditions for startups and small to medium-sized enterprises working in fields such as multimedia, architecture, fashion, software development, music, film, art, and other creative industries.
Its main goal is to create a supportive ecosystem that enables creative entrepreneurs to realize their ideas, reduce tax burdens, and gain access to modern technologies and infrastructure.
Key Benefits for Residents
Companies that become residents of the park enjoy several advantages, making it an attractive choice for creative entrepreneurs:
Tax Incentives
One of the main benefits is the generous tax exemptions. Resident companies are exempt from corporate income tax and VAT, allowing them to save significantly on operational costs and reinvest more into business development.
Infrastructure Support
The park provides access to modern office and creative spaces equipped with everything needed for work, including high-speed internet, meeting rooms, media production studios, and coworking zones.
Educational Programs and Events
The park regularly organizes workshops, seminars, and expert sessions, giving residents the opportunity to enhance their skills, share experiences, and expand their professional network.
Access to International Markets
The park actively partners with international organizations and companies, providing residents with opportunities to enter global markets.
Tax Rates for Residents of the Creative Industries Park
To benefit from these advantages, non-residents from countries like Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and others must first register a sole proprietorship (SP) or LLC (OsOO) in Kyrgyzstan, and then apply for residency in the Creative Industries Park. Key tax incentives include:
- Exemption from Corporate Income Tax
Residents are not required to pay income tax, allowing them to retain more capital for reinvestment. - Exemption from VAT
Companies operating within the park are not subject to value-added tax, reducing business costs and making their products/services more competitive. - Reduced Payroll Taxes
Residents can benefit from lower personal income tax rates for employees, making them more attractive employers in the local market.
What Are the Costs for Park Participants?
Despite the tax relief, participants of the Creative Industries Park are subject to certain mandatory expenses, including:
- Membership Fee
Resident companies must pay 1% of their gross revenue as a membership contribution. This fee helps maintain park infrastructure and administrative operations. - Office Expenses
Although the park offers access to workspaces, office and creative space rentals may carry additional charges depending on size and services. - Participation in Events
Some seminars, training programs, or events may require a participation fee, although most are offered free or at discounted rates to residents. - Additional Administrative Costs
Depending on the nature of the business, companies may incur extra expenses for legal services, accounting, or other operational needs.
How to Join the Creative Industries Park
To become a resident of the Creative Industries Park in Kyrgyzstan, a company must meet specific eligibility criteria. The primary requirement is engaging in a creative industry — such as design, filmmaking, music, IT development, and other creative economy activities.
The application process is straightforward:
- Register on the official website of the park;
- Provide details about your business activity;
- Submit a business plan.
Our company provides full support in registration of company in Kyrgyzstan remotely We also help with HTP and CI parks applications along with accounting services we provide.
Once approved, the company gains resident status and can access the full range of benefits and incentives.
Conclusion
The Creative Industries Park in Kyrgyzstan represents a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs and startups in the creative economy. With tax incentives, infrastructure support, and access to educational resources, it offers a highly attractive environment for doing business.
Despite some mandatory contributions, participation in the Creative Industries Park can greatly reduce your tax burden and open new prospects for growth, including international expansion.
