World central banks bought 39 tons of gold in August: Uzbekistan in the top three leaders
According to the World Gold Council, in August 2026, the world's central banks collectively purchased 39 tons of gold. The month's leaders were China, Uzbekistan, and Poland. Since the beginning of the year, total purchases reached 170 tons.
World central banks purchased 39 tons of gold in August: Uzbekistan entered the top three leaders
Central banks around the world continue to increase their gold reserves. In August, net purchases reportedly amounted to 39 tons. Among the major and consistent buyers of gold in 2026, China, Uzbekistan, and Poland showed activity this month, taking the top positions. Since the beginning of the year, central banks have collectively bought 170 tons.
As emphasized, the composition of August purchases is no less telling than the total result: demand was once again driven by well-familiar participants implementing multi-year accumulation programs. This indicates that central bank actions reflect long-term reserve management goals, while monthly fluctuations are more likely related to execution specifics, market conditions, and the liquidity needs of individual countries.
Key data for August and year-to-date:
The National Bank of Poland continued to increase its gold reserves, buying 8 tons in August. Poland still holds first place in purchases since the beginning of the year with 98 tons. In total, the country has accumulated 648 tons of gold against a target level of 700 tons.
The People's Bank of China bought gold for the 22nd consecutive month, adding 20 tons in August. Since the beginning of the year, China has increased its reserves by 80 tons, which is the second highest figure after Poland. China's official gold reserves now account for 9% of the total, or about 2,387 tons.
The Central Bank of Uzbekistan bought 8 tons in August, bringing purchases since the beginning of the year to almost 50 tons. The share of gold in Uzbekistan's reserves is 90%, or about 439 tons.
The National Bank of Kazakhstan acquired 7 tons in August, and almost 36 tons since the beginning of the year. Gold accounts for 79 percent of Kazakhstan's reserves, or about 377 tons.
The Czech National Bank has been buying gold for 42 consecutive months, purchasing 2 tons in August. Since the beginning of the year, 14 tons have been bought; gold accounts for 7 percent of reserves, or 86 tons.
The Central Bank of Turkey bought 3 tons in August after three months of net sales. Since the beginning of the year, Turkey has sold 82 tons, most of it in the first quarter of 2026.
The Central Bank of Russia continued net sales, selling another 6 tons in August. Since the beginning of the year, Russia has sold 56 tons, and its reserves stand at 2,271 tons.