Uzbekistan is introducing a broad package of reforms aimed at expanding the role of the private sector in healthcare, increasing investment and strengthening competition in the medical services market.

The measures are designed to improve accessibility and quality of healthcare services, accelerate public-private partnership (PPP) projects and create additional incentives for non-state medical organizations.

Expansion of private sector participation

 

The reform sets a strategic target of increasing the share of the private sector in healthcare services to 30% by 2030.

Particular focus is placed on:

• attracting domestic and foreign investment;
• improving healthcare infrastructure in the regions;
• expanding participation of private clinics in the public healthcare system;
• strengthening competition between state and non-state medical providers.

Integration into state-funded healthcare services

 

Starting from 1 July 2026, non-state medical organizations will be permitted to provide services financed from the State Budget within the framework of the state medical insurance system and their licensed activities.

Importantly:

• state and private medical institutions will operate under uniform base tariffs for treatment costs;
• accredited medical organizations will no longer need a separate expert commission conclusion from the Ministry of Health when contracting for state-funded treatment services;
• budget allocation mechanisms will shift from institution-based financing to financing by categories of diseases and treatment направления.

This represents a major step toward creating a more competitive and market-oriented healthcare environment.

Changes to licensing and operational rules

 

The reform also liberalizes certain regulatory requirements:

• suspension of licenses will apply only to the specific specialization where violations occurred, rather than to the entire medical institution;
• maternity-focused medical organizations may outsource bacteriological laboratory services.

In addition, starting from 1 May 2027, nationally or internationally accredited private medical organizations will be permitted to perform transplant operations.

Institutional reform and investment support

 

The Agency for Pharmaceutical Industry Development is being transformed into the Agency for Development of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Industry, with expanded responsibilities including:

• development of private healthcare networks;
• attraction of foreign direct investment;
• investor support through a “single window” model.

The reform also предусматривает creation of:

• Health Invest joint-stock company;
• Medical Organizations Development Fund.

A preferential USD 200 million credit line has also been opened to support establishment of clinics in districts, cities outside regional centers and border regions.

Tax and customs incentives

 

The framework introduces several incentives aimed at attracting expertise and reducing investment costs.

Until 1 May 2029:

• foreign doctors, consultants, managers and medical equipment specialists will benefit from a reduced 1% social tax rate;
• work authorization fees for foreign specialists are significantly reduced.

From 1 June 2026 to 1 June 2029, imports of:

• medical equipment;
• spare parts and consumables;
• specialized medical vehicles

for own use will be exempt from import customs duties.

In addition, from 1 July 2026 to 1 July 2029, expenses related to voluntary medical insurance for employees and their family members (within established limits) will be deductible for corporate income tax purposes.

Implications

 

The reform signals a significant shift toward:

• greater private sector participation in healthcare delivery;
• integration of private providers into publicly financed healthcare systems;
• stronger investment incentives for healthcare infrastructure;
• increased reliance on accreditation and quality-based regulation.

For investors, healthcare operators and medical service providers, the framework creates substantial opportunities in clinic development, PPP healthcare projects and specialized medical services.

The measures entered into force on 7 May 2026.