Modernizing irrigation systems in Central Asia could increase the productivity of the irrigation sector to meet growing food and export demand, while also improving farmers’ livelihoods. It could ensure greater irrigation efficiency and crop productivity amid growing water scarcity in the region and deliver cost-effective and reliable irrigation services to farmers. In addition, modernized systems could contribute to national development objectives such as climate resilient economic growth, food security and poverty reduction. This publication, geared to policy-makers, sector managers and technical experts, draws on the findings of a study carried out by an FAO team through the World Bank’s regional assistance programme “Exposure and Practical In-Roads to Modernizing Irrigation in Central Asia”. It is part of the Directions in Investment series under the FAO Investment Centre's Knowledge for Investment (K4I) programme.