TAF!25 and the Future of Creative Central Asia

The winds of creative change are sweeping across Central Asia, and leading that movement is Uzbekistan’s flagship event—the Tashkent International Advertising Festival (TAF!25). Under the leadership of Diyor Mirzaakhmedov, Chairman of the Marketing Association of Uzbekistan, TAF! has grown from a regional gathering into a bold international platform for marketing, design, and advertising excellence.

Now entering its seventh season, TAF!25 opens its doors wider than ever before. For the first time, it invites agencies, brands, and young creatives from around the world to compete and connect in a festival that celebrates both effectiveness and creativity. With entries now open in 35 diverse categories, including a free-entry Concept category for young creatives, the 2025 edition is poised to be the most inclusive and dynamic yet.

The festival, scheduled for October 11–12 in Tashkent, will feature a two-day program packed with an international advertising conference, "Ad of the Year" exhibition, a prestigious awards ceremony, and a series of workshops and masterclasses. What sets TAF apart is its deep commitment to education, networking, and regional integration. More than 40 speakers from leading Uzbek companies and global agencies are set to present across seven thematic sections, bringing together CEOs, marketers, PR experts, and creative leaders.

“This is a unique opportunity for international participants to connect with one of the fastest-growing creative markets,” says Diyor. “Central Asia—especially Uzbekistan—is full of untapped potential. By participating in TAF, you’re not just competing for recognition; you’re building future-facing partnerships and gaining visibility in a region ready to innovate.”

TAF!25 also continues to spotlight the best of local creativity through its "Ad of the Year" exhibition and the ABC-show, a curated collection of outstanding global ads. With respected industry curators like Askhat Uskembaev—the exclusive Cannes Lions representative in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan—and Temur Sa’diy, CEO of MA’NO Branding Agency, the festival maintains global standards while nurturing regional voices.

As the marketing and advertising industries in Central Asia rapidly evolve, TAF!25 stands as both a mirror and a megaphone: reflecting the region’s progress while amplifying its creative voices on the world stage. At its core is a belief that creativity is borderless—and that when you bring together the right people, ideas, and platforms, something powerful emerges.

With leaders like Diyor at the helm, Uzbekistan is not only hosting a festival—it’s building a future for creative exchange, regional storytelling, and cross-cultural innovation.

Submissions are now open: taf25.marketing.uz

Festival dates: October 11–12, 2025

Location: Tashkent, Uzbekistan

Source: Adjournal Asia