The COVID-19 pandemic has put a significant strain on public health systems in Central Asia. In its wake, governments and partners are assessing the socio-economic impacts still unfolding, while at the same time implementing response measures aimed at maintaining the economic base and minimizing the social implications.

Efforts to contain the direct health impact—as in other parts of the world—have led to a breakdown in supply chains and stoppages of production units, as well as demand shocks caused by declines in domestic consumption, fixed investment and exports. This has led to forced leaves, to furloughs, to underemployment and to job losses resulting in declines in household income.

This paper examines the socio-economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic in Central Asia, especially the impact on micro-, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) and on households.