Uzbekistan has adopted a revised set of rules governing the provision of telecommunications services, introducing a range of consumer-focused changes aimed at improving transparency, accessibility, and protection of subscribers’ rights. The updated framework reflects the state’s broader digital policy objectives and responds to practical issues faced by users of mobile and telecommunications services.
The new rules will enter into force after a transition period, allowing operators and service providers time to adapt their internal procedures and systems.
One of the key changes concerns the treatment of mobile subscribers with insufficient funds on their accounts. Under the updated rules, the period after which a mobile services agreement may be terminated due to lack of funds has been significantly extended. Instead of a short suspension period, mobile numbers may now remain inactive for up to one year before being transferred to a non-existent status.
This change provides subscribers with greater flexibility and reduces the risk of losing a mobile number due to temporary financial or personal circumstances.
Subscribers are now entitled to change their existing tariff plan free of charge to any other available tariff, subject to limited exceptions. Restrictions apply only to certain tariff plans specifically designed for defined groups of users or limited geographic areas.
This reform enhances consumer choice and prevents unjustified financial barriers when switching between service packages.
Telecommunications operators are now required to notify subscribers of any changes to existing tariff conditions at least 15 days in advance. Notification must be provided through accessible channels, including:
This obligation increases transparency and allows subscribers sufficient time to assess changes and make informed decisions regarding continued use of services.
To improve access to telecommunications services, particularly for individuals unable to visit service centers, the revised rules introduce on-site service provision at a subscriber’s place of residence. In remote and hard-to-reach areas, mobile service units will be deployed to ensure availability of telecommunications services.
This measure is especially relevant for elderly users, persons with disabilities, and residents of rural areas.
The new rules introduce clear prohibitions aimed at protecting subscribers from unexpected charges. In particular:
These provisions are designed to prevent involuntary indebtedness and unauthorized monetization of services.
Subscribers are guaranteed the right to make free, round-the-clock calls to the trust hotline of the Presidential Virtual Reception. This ensures uninterrupted public access to an important channel for communication with state authorities.
The procedure for transferring mobile subscriber numbers between operators has been significantly accelerated. Number portability must now be completed at service points within 20 minutes, replacing the previous, much longer processing timeframe.
This change enhances competition among mobile operators and improves user convenience.
The revised framework introduces stricter rules for paid content services offered on a subscription basis. Key safeguards include:
These requirements aim to eliminate unauthorized subscriptions and improve control over digital content spending.
The updated rules for the provision of telecommunications services mark a significant step toward strengthening consumer rights and modernizing the regulatory environment in Uzbekistan’s telecommunications sector. By enhancing transparency, preventing unauthorized charges, improving service accessibility, and accelerating key procedures, the reforms create a more balanced relationship between operators and subscribers.
For telecommunications companies, the changes require careful review of billing systems, customer communication processes, and content-service activation mechanisms. For subscribers, the new framework provides greater protection, choice, and convenience in the use of telecommunications services.