Uzbekistan has introduced a new legal framework that allows farmers and agricultural enterprises to use their lease rights to farmland as collateral when obtaining bank loans.

The regulation establishes the procedure for pledging lease rights to agricultural land as loan security. It enables lessees to use their leasehold interests to access credit resources more easily, strengthening investment potential and improving productivity in the agricultural sector.

Under the new rules, lease rights to agricultural land may be pledged to banks or other financial institutions as collateral without the consent of the lessor, provided that such an arrangement is permitted by law or by the lease agreement. The regulation sets out the mechanisms for formalizing pledges, the satisfaction of creditor claims, and the sale of pledged lease rights through open auction in cases of default.

At the same time, the regulation clearly defines cases where the pledge of lease rights is not permitted. Lease rights cannot be used as collateral if the land:

is subleased;

is under a lease agreement that has expired, been terminated, or is under dispute (including court proceedings, investigation, or inquiry);

is subject to contractual restrictions prohibiting pledge;

has unregistered lease rights or unregistered amendments to such rights;

contains unauthorized or illegally occupied plots; or

falls under other restrictions established by law.

The pledge is provided to the lending institution based on the lease term and the market value of the land plot. Importantly, the term of the land lease must exceed the loan term by at least five years, ensuring stability and minimizing credit risks for lenders.

Commercial banks and microfinance institutions are expected to adapt their internal procedures to reflect this new mechanism, facilitating access to financing for agricultural producers.

The reform aligns with Uzbekistan’s broader strategy to enhance land productivity, attract investment into the agricultural sector, and create favorable conditions for sustainable rural development.

Uzbekistan is introducing a new mechanism aimed at attracting foreign individuals and their families by offering a preferential personal taxation framework. According to a recently adopted presidential act, beginning from early 2026, foreign citizens will be able to obtain a special tax status granting exemption from personal income tax on income derived from sources outside Uzbekistan.

Scope and Purpose

The special tax regime is designed to enhance the country’s investment and human capital potential by encouraging skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors to establish a tax presence in Uzbekistan. The regime provides a simplified process for recognizing foreign individuals as tax residents while allowing them to retain global income earned abroad without being subject to domestic taxation.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the special tax status, a foreign citizen must meet two basic conditions:

Residence or tenancy – the individual must own or rent residential property within Uzbekistan; and

Physical presence – the individual must be physically present in the country for a cumulative period exceeding 30 calendar days within any continuous twelve-month period that begins or ends in the relevant tax year.

The regime is also extended to close family members of eligible foreign citizens, provided that a special fee is paid for each adult relative included under the regime.

Application Procedure

Applications for obtaining the special tax status will be submitted to a Commission on the Provision of the Special Tax Regime for Foreign Citizens through the Tax Committee. The necessary technical infrastructure is expected to be established by the end of the year preceding the introduction of the regime.

The Commission is required to review each application within five business days and issue a decision either approving or rejecting the request.

Financial Requirements

Upon receiving approval, the applicant must:

Pay a special fee of USD 50,000 for the primary applicant and USD 10,000 for each adult close relative included in the application; and

Open a financial account either in a specially authorized commercial bank in Uzbekistan or a crypto-wallet on a licensed cryptocurrency exchange operating in the country.

Funds transferred to these accounts or crypto-wallets will be subject to verification by the respective financial institutions to ensure the legality of their origin.

Registration and Validity

Foreign citizens and their family members who have paid the special fee are granted registration at their place of residence in Uzbekistan within one business day upon submission of the relevant request and proof of payment.

This registration will be valid for a period of up to five years, after which it may be renewed subject to applicable procedures and continued compliance with the established requirements.

Legal and Practical Implications

The introduction of this special tax regime marks a significant policy shift toward creating a favorable environment for foreign residents. By decoupling global income from domestic tax obligations, Uzbekistan positions itself as a competitive jurisdiction for professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors seeking regional residency options with simplified tax treatment.

At the same time, the requirement to maintain verified financial accounts within authorized institutions reinforces transparency and compliance with international standards on anti-money-laundering and counter-terrorism financing.

The regime’s design combining minimal physical presence requirements with substantial financial commitments reflects a deliberate balance between accessibility and fiscal responsibility. It provides foreign citizens with an opportunity to obtain a secure and legitimate tax residency status in Uzbekistan while contributing to the national economy through investment and financial engagement.

The Cabinet of Ministers has adopted a resolution establishing a comprehensive framework for the regulation, classification, and modernization of transport and logistics centers (TLCs) throughout Uzbekistan. This new framework aims to improve the efficiency, safety, and competitiveness of the logistics sector by introducing unified standards of infrastructure, operational capacity, and management oversight.

Establishment of a National Register and Rating System

All TLCs operating in the country will now be included in a special national register maintained by the competent authorities. Each center will be assigned a rating reflecting its level of compliance, sustainability, and performance.

The overall rating will be based on two components:

The rating system will thus serve both as a compliance mechanism and as a benchmark for determining eligibility for state support, partnership programs, or preferential treatment in logistics initiatives.

Standardization of Infrastructure and Equipment

The resolution introduces mandatory technical and infrastructural requirements for the operation of both regional and international TLCs, as well as for warehouses, container terminals, and dry ports.

The territory of each TLC must comply with sanitary, environmental, and urban planning standards.

Requirements extend to transport accessibility, storage capacity, safety systems, and technological equipment.

TLCs are expected to provide facilities for cargo handling, packaging, temporary storage, customs procedures, and intermodal transport connections.

The standards are designed to align domestic logistics infrastructure with international norms, enhancing the country’s role as a regional transit and trade hub.

Restrictions on Location and Land Use

The regulation imposes clear geographical and land-use limitations:

TLCs must be located outside residential areas, protected environmental zones, and agricultural lands.

The allocated land plots must be used exclusively for logistics purposes, prohibiting unrelated commercial or industrial activities on the site.

This approach aims to reduce environmental risks, prevent congestion in urban areas, and preserve agricultural resources.

Accessibility Requirements

Each TLC must ensure direct and efficient connectivity to the main national and regional transportation corridors:

The distance between a TLC and the nearest railway line, transport interchange, or national/international highway may not exceed three kilometers by a road suitable for heavy transport movement.

This ensures smooth integration with the national logistics network, reducing costs and time in cargo movement.

Functional Mandate of TLCs

Depending on their location and strategic importance, TLCs must be capable of performing dual logistical roles:

Distribution center – facilitating the delivery and redistribution of goods across regions and neighboring countries.

Consolidation center – enabling the collection, sorting, and aggregation of goods for export, transit, or further distribution. This dual function enhances the system’s flexibility and responsiveness to both domestic and international trade flows.

Compliance and Future Implications

The introduction of uniform standards represents a major shift toward a regulated and performance-based logistics environment in Uzbekistan.

Operators will need to undertake technical audits and legal due diligence to ensure compliance with new standards before registration.

Non-compliance may result in exclusion from the register, loss of rating, or restrictions on participation in logistics programs.

The rating mechanism is expected to influence access to financing, investment incentives, and government contracts, effectively linking operational quality with regulatory and financial outcomes.

Strategic Outlook

The reform positions Uzbekistan to:

Strengthen its regional transit potential and integrate with global supply chains.

Attract private investment in logistics infrastructure through transparency and predictability.

Promote sustainable and environmentally responsible development by enforcing location and infrastructure controls.

The document shall enter into force on January 10, 2026.

Uzbekistan has introduced a comprehensive set of measures aimed at improving the management of water resources at the local level and increasing the attractiveness of the sector for private investment. These reforms mark a significant step toward modernizing the country’s water infrastructure, ensuring sustainability, and enhancing operational efficiency.

Key objectives of the reform include:

Strengthening the financial independence of 160 state institutions operating under the “Suv etkazib berish xizmati” (Water Supply Service);

Transferring 50% of pumping stations in Jizzakh, Kashkadarya, Navoi, Namangan, Samarkand, and Syrdarya regions to management under public-private partnership (PPP) arrangements by 2026;

Expanding the PPP model to cover 100% of pumping stations in the Namangan region by the end of 2027, building on its successful pilot experience;

Establishing training and field centers on at least 3,500 hectares of land in 141 districts as part of the “School of Water Specialists” project.

Pilot project in Dustlik district

Provide transparent observation of water consumption and supply for 437 farming enterprises, ensuring the delivery of water within established limits;

Install 1,804 smart water meters to enable digital monitoring and efficiency tracking;

Achieve annual savings of up to 107 million cubic meters – equivalent to 33% of total water use;

Concrete 159 kilometers of irrigation networks and restore 541 kilometers to fully operational condition.

Institutional and operational improvements

The reform also focuses on enhancing the performance of the Water Supply Services through:

Introduction of a flexible staffing system that reflects operational needs and available financial resources;

Establishment of key performance indicators (KPIs) for staff, linking incentives to efficient water resource use and service delivery outcomes;

Reinforcement of financial autonomy and improvement of the material and technical base of water supply institutions.

Under the new framework, the Water Supply Services will have the right to independently determine the number of staff positions and allocate up to 40% of revenues from the water use tax (credited to the state budget) toward infrastructure development.

Role of private partners

Private entities engaged under PPP arrangements will be required to:

Ensure continuous water delivery to users and households within approved water intake limits;

Manage all relevant water facilities in coordination with the public partner;

Maintain comprehensive records and reporting of water use, including through automated systems;

Implement phased modernization of water facilities in their service area.

Budget and regional oversight

The Council of Ministers of the Republic of Karakalpakstan and regional hokimiyats will annually review and adjust the budget allocations to Water Supply Services based on regional performance indicators. Within one month, a recalculation of local budget allocations for 2025 will be conducted to reflect the updated indexed amounts, and any outstanding funds will be disbursed accordingly.

These measures reflect Uzbekistan’s broader strategy to decentralize water resource management, encourage private sector participation, and ensure the sustainable use of one of the country’s most vital natural resources.

Pursuant to a Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers, the Regulation establishing the Expert Council on Tax Disputes under the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Republic of Uzbekistan has been approved. The newly established Expert Council is designed to serve as a platform for impartial and professional review of tax-related disputes arising between business entities and tax authorities.

Key Objectives and Functions

The Regulation defines the structure, procedures, and responsibilities of the Council, which include:

Reviewing tax disputes between entrepreneurs and tax authorities, and issuing formal conclusions and recommendations;

Analyzing legislative and regulatory acts in the field of taxation and developing proposals to improve law enforcement practices;

Strengthening collaboration with the business community, government institutions, and academic organizations to ensure transparency and fairness in tax dispute resolution.

The Council is committed to ensuring impartiality, legality, fairness, and consistency in the interpretation and application of tax laws. Importantly, it emphasizes that all unresolved contradictions and ambiguities in tax legislation should be interpreted in favor of the entrepreneur, thereby supporting the principles of a fair and business-friendly tax environment.

Procedure for Appeals and Consideration

Entrepreneurs may submit appeals to the Council following the established procedure. Once a submission is received, the Secretary of the Council conducts a preliminary review and informs the applicant in writing about the feasibility of including the issue in the Council’s agenda.

The Council’s Secretariat prepares the agenda in coordination with its leadership, ensuring that each session addresses relevant and pressing issues faced by businesses. Following each meeting, the Council prepares certified extracts of its conclusions and distributes them to its members, the applicant, and other concerned parties.

The conclusions and recommendations issued by the Council are subsequently reviewed by the competent state authorities, which are obliged to inform the Council of the outcomes of their consideration.

Structure and Operations

The composition of the Expert Council will be approved by a Presidential Resolution. Its sessions will be held on a regular basis to ensure continuous engagement and timely resolution of tax disputes.

This initiative marks a significant step toward enhancing dialogue between the state and the business community, improving transparency in tax administration, and strengthening trust in the system of tax dispute resolution in Uzbekistan.

The Government of Uzbekistan has adopted a new Presidential Decree introducing additional measures to support projects based on artificial intelligence (AI). This initiative marks another important step toward accelerating the country’s digital transformation and advancing the goals of the “Digital Uzbekistan 2030” Strategy.

Under the new framework, the government will allocate significant additional funding from the Fund for Reconstruction and Development to finance projects driven by AI technologies. The support will include both direct grants for the implementation of AI in public institutions and investments in venture funds such as “Fund of Funds” and “IT Park Ventures.” These mechanisms aim to stimulate innovation in socially important areas and across key sectors of the economy.

The Coordinating Commission for the Implementation of the Digital Uzbekistan Strategy will oversee the distribution of these resources. The Commission will determine priority sectors, select projects, and ensure that resources are used effectively to achieve the intended socio-economic impact.

Government institutions are encouraged to develop and submit proposals for integrating AI technologies into their operations. Projects will be financed either through direct agreements with registered enterprises or via open competitions held among innovative companies that meet the Commission’s requirements and selection criteria.

Additionally, the decree simplifies the technical review process for information systems and resources, ensuring that approvals are completed swiftly and efficiently across all relevant agencies.

This initiative underscores Uzbekistan’s growing commitment to fostering AI-driven innovation, promoting digital inclusion, and building a competitive, knowledge-based economy that harnesses the power of emerging technologies for public benefit.

The “Digital Prosecutor’s Office – 2030” strategy represents a nationwide initiative for the complete digital transformation of the prosecutorial system. Its overarching objective is to create a transparent, efficient, and modern institution capable of ensuring the rule of law through digital tools, data-driven oversight, and technological innovation.

The reform envisions the prosecutor’s office as an integral component of the country’s digital government infrastructure, a key institution in the ecosystem of e-governance, where all activities are carried out electronically, monitored in real time, and fully integrated with other state bodies.

Core Objectives

The strategy’s primary mission is to achieve full automation of all prosecutorial functions by 2030 and to ensure seamless electronic interaction across all levels of law enforcement, justice, and public administration.

Its objectives include:

Introducing advanced digital tools into every sphere of prosecutorial activity.

Establishing efficient systems for interdepartmental data exchange.

Enabling prosecutors to supervise legality, investigations, and judicial processes electronically.

Building a secure, transparent, and unified information environment that minimizes human error and corruption risks.

Enhancing public trust by ensuring accountability and open access to justice-related data.

Digital Transformation Priorities

Digital Oversight and AI-Driven Supervision

The concept of digital oversight introduces remote, continuous, and data-based supervision of law enforcement and administrative activities. Through integration with state databases, prosecutors will have real-time access to official data, enabling:

Automatic monitoring of government actions and procedural compliance.

Detection of irregularities and potential abuse of authority.

Prevention of corruption through algorithmic transparency and digital auditing.

Artificial intelligence will play a pivotal role in analyzing case data, recognizing patterns, and forecasting risks allowing the prosecutorial system to move from reactive investigation to proactive legal prevention.

Key Information Systems

A network of new digital platforms forms the technological foundation of the reform.

E-tergov (Electronic Prosecution System)

A central system that digitizes the entire criminal process from the registration of complaints to the enforcement of sentences. Its functionality covers:

Electronic case management and document circulation.

AI-based analysis of investigations and judicial outcomes.

Integration among investigative bodies, courts, and correctional institutions.

Secure digital archiving and communication channels.

This system ensures speed, accountability, and consistency throughout all stages of criminal justice.

Raqamli prokuror (Digital Prosecutor System)

A comprehensive digital ecosystem for prosecutors to manage supervision remotely. Features include:

Electronic oversight of law enforcement agencies.

Online participation of prosecutors in court hearings.

Maintenance of digital case files, requests, and administrative documentation.

Continuous collection and statistical analysis of data on prosecutorial activity.

This system forms the backbone of “smart supervision,” allowing real-time monitoring and decision-making.

Tekshiruvlarning yagona elektron reyestri (Unified Electronic Register of Inspections)

A centralized register of all state inspection activities. It ensures transparency of control measures, prevents overlapping checks, and allows prosecutors to track legality and compliance across agencies in real time.

E-Integratsiya (Unified Interagency Integration Platform)

A single digital platform that connects the prosecutor’s office to the entire governmental digital ecosystem. It supports:

Interoperability among ministries, agencies, and regional authorities.

Instant access to official data required for oversight and investigation.

Automated exchange of requests, reports, and monitoring outcomes.

Reduction of redundant paperwork and duplication of information across institutions.

Institutional Framework and Governance

To coordinate these digital initiatives, a Center for Digital Technologies is being established within the Prosecutor General’s Office.

This Center will:

Develop, maintain, and improve digital platforms used by the prosecutorial system.

Lead projects on the introduction of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity measures.

Provide technical expertise, manage databases, and oversee system integration across government entities.

Conduct audits of digital systems used by state institutions to ensure data security and lawful information management.

The Center operates as an independent administrative unit, financed through both the state budget and additional sources such as revenues from digital services. Funds will be reinvested into system upgrades, staff training, and the recruitment of IT specialists to sustain technological progress.

Human Capital and Education Reform

Recognizing that digital transformation requires new competencies, the strategy introduces comprehensive educational measures.

A Cyber Law bachelor’s program will be launched at the Law Enforcement Academy, training legal professionals who combine a strong understanding of law with expertise in information technologies, data protection, and cybersecurity.

Parallel initiatives include:

Systematic digital literacy programs for all prosecutorial staff.

Continuous professional development in AI applications, electronic documentation, and data analytics.

Cooperation with universities and research institutions to foster innovation in legal technology.

Innovation in Investigations and Case Management

The transition to a digital prosecution model involves:

Converting all stages of criminal proceedings into electronic form.

Implementing digital supervision at the stages of inquiry and preliminary investigation.

Enabling online documentation of procedural actions and the use of digital signatures.

Applying AI-based tools for the analysis of criminal patterns, economic crimes, and corruption risks.

Creating secure systems for data exchange and online coordination between prosecutors, investigators, and courts.

Such integration eliminates delays, improves procedural transparency, and enhances coordination among law enforcement bodies.

Transparency, Accountability, and Anti-Corruption Measures

An essential focus of the strategy is to combat corruption through technological means. The digital environment will enable continuous oversight of the activities of state officials, tracking their actions and decisions to ensure legality.

All public agencies will be required to integrate their information systems with the prosecutorial network, allowing:

Instant detection of irregularities.

Verification of official decisions.

Monitoring of compliance with laws and ethical standards.

This will institutionalize digital accountability and strengthen the culture of integrity in public administration.

Expected Outcomes

By the time the strategy is fully implemented:

Prosecutorial bodies will operate as modern, transparent, and digitally integrated institutions.

All processes from case registration to court participation will be managed electronically.

Artificial intelligence will enhance legal analysis, decision-making, and preventive oversight.

Interagency coordination will become seamless, supported by real-time data exchange.

Citizens’ rights and freedoms will be more effectively protected through transparent legal mechanisms.

Public trust in law enforcement will rise due to openness, responsiveness, and technological reliability.

The “Digital Prosecutor’s Office – 2030” strategy represents a decisive leap toward a fully digital justice system. It transforms the prosecutor’s office into a technologically advanced, data-driven institution that upholds legality through innovation rather than bureaucracy.

By combining automation, AI, interagency integration, and advanced human capital, the reform lays the foundation for a new era of digital legality, transparency, and institutional trust positioning the prosecutorial system as one of the key pillars of modern digital governance.

A presidential decree has been issued establishing new measures aimed at simplifying business operations, licensing, and permitting procedures. The primary objective of this decree is to reduce administrative expenses for entrepreneurs estimated at up to ninety billion soums and to shorten the time spent on interactions with state authorities by as much as fifteen days.

Beginning from early 2026, the following services will be provided simultaneously during the state registration of business entities, in accordance with the “Start a Business in 15 Minutes” principle:

issuance of an electronic digital signature key;

submission of applications for the opening and activation of bank accounts;

submission of applications for obtaining licenses, permits, or notifications for certain types of activities;

execution of rental agreements for immovable property;

automatic issuance of a Value Added Tax payer certificate (for taxpayers eligible for automatic issuance without a tax-risk assessment requirement);

online purchase of cash register equipment and its real-time registration with the tax authorities;

appointment of the head of a legal entity and registration of this information in the Unified National Labour System.

Under the “Start a Business in 15 Minutes” framework:

each service is used voluntarily at the discretion of the entrepreneur;

payment for all selected services may be made through a single unified QR code.

Additionally, from early 2026, individual entrepreneurs will be permitted to have a trade name.

When primary registration data of a business entity is changed (including name, surname, patronymic, trade name, address, legal form, etc.), all necessary adjustments to the individual entrepreneur certificate, licenses, permits, and notifications will be made free of charge through interagency electronic data exchange, in an automatic manner.

For this purpose:

information concerning changes in the name, surname, or patronymic of an individual entrepreneur will be provided through the automated identification system of the Ministry of Internal Affairs;

all other information will be transmitted from the automated state registration and accounting system for business entities to the licensing information system in real time.

Simplification of Licensing and Permitting Procedures

Starting from spring 2026, when penalties are applied to legal entities for violations in the area of licensing, permitting, or notification procedures, the practice of simultaneously imposing administrative liability on their officials will be abolished.

In addition, a voluntary preliminary assessment service will be introduced within the licensing information system. Under this service:

the compliance of facilities, equipment, personnel, and other relevant information with licensing or permitting requirements will be reviewed, and a corresponding conclusion will be issued;

the preliminary assessment will be carried out within a period not exceeding twenty days, and the fee for this service will not exceed the amount charged for reviewing an application for the respective license or permit.

A comprehensive roadmap has also been approved, aimed at reducing regulatory burdens on entrepreneurial activity and eliminating bureaucratic barriers.

In accordance with the relevant Presidential Decree, the Government of Uzbekistan has announced the establishment of the U.S.-Uzbek Business and Investment Council (the “Council”). The decision follows agreements reached during the President of Uzbekistan’s visit to the United States within the framework of the “C5+1” Summit. The Council will be co-chaired by the Head of the Administration of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan from the Uzbek side and a representative of the President of the United States from the American side.

Mandate and Authority

The Head of the Administration of the President of Uzbekistan has been granted the authority to approve the composition of the Council, as well as its regulations and procedures on behalf of Uzbekistan.

The Council will focus on a number of strategic priorities, including:

Coordination of strategic business initiatives, major investment and trade projects, and continuous monitoring of their implementation.

Creation of a special investment fund aimed at mobilizing additional investments into Uzbekistan, with anchor participation from the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) and the Uzbek side, as well as the involvement of major international financial institutions such as the EBRD, IFC, and ADB to finance critical infrastructure and strategic projects and share risks.

Continuation of negotiations on mutual tariff reductions.

Systemic promotion of products and services of resident companies of the IT Park of Software Products and Information Technologies.

Development of proposals for diversifying the national investment portfolio, including portions of the foreign exchange reserves of the Central Bank of Uzbekistan and other assets.

Strengthening Diplomatic Capacity in the United States

To enhance the effectiveness of foreign policy coordination and state initiatives, an additional position of Counselor-Envoy, serving as a representative of the Administration of the President of Uzbekistan in the United States, will be introduced within the structure of the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Washington, D.C. beginning from the start of 2026.

The Counselor-Envoy:

Is appointed and dismissed by the Head of the Administration of the President of Uzbekistan.

Reports directly to the Head of the Administration.

Is responsible for supporting the Head of Uzbekistan’s diplomatic mission in the United States, particularly in matters of advancing bilateral relations.

Will directly initiate and discuss issues related to the implementation of major strategic investment and trade projects in both countries.

Will ensure comprehensive coordination of the Council’s work from the Uzbek side.

In addition, measures are planned to further strengthen the diplomatic presence of Uzbekistan in the United States:

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, together with the Ministry of Investments, Industry and Trade, will propose an expansion of the Embassy’s staff.

Work will be undertaken to open additional consulates in U.S. cities with major economic hubs or large Uzbek diasporas, including Philadelphia, Chicago, Orlando, and Seattle.

One of the primary tasks of the newly established consulates will be the development and implementation of an effective interaction model with Uzbek diaspora communities across all U.S. states.

Facilitating Investment Activities of Uzbek Residents in the United States

Beginning in 2026, operations of Uzbek residents related to investment activities in the United States such as the transfer of funds from accounts in Uzbekistan for the formation of charter capital of foreign enterprises, equity participation, or funding the working capital of their U.S. branches will be carried out without restrictions, within the limits of their account balances.

The Central Bank of Uzbekistan will introduce the necessary legislative amendments arising from this requirement.

Additionally, the Ministry of Economy and Finance, together with the Central Bank, will submit proposals to the Council on improving the structure of the country’s investment assets and foreign exchange reserves, aiming to allocate resources to high-yield and highly liquid assets, including those located in the United States.

Organizational Development of the Council

To ensure long-term, efficient functioning of the newly established Council:

The Ministry of Investments, Industry and Trade and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will work with the U.S. side on the formation of a permanent staff for the Council’s executive body, with a permanent office located in the United States, including U.S. specialists.

A draft of the Council’s regulations and operational procedures from the Uzbek side will be submitted for approval.

The composition of the Council from the Uzbek side expected to include prominent figures from the U.S. business and investment community will be finalized.

Negotiations will begin with the U.S. side on a bilateral Agreement on the Promotion and Protection of Investments.

Legislative Adjustments

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, together with relevant ministries and agencies, will submit proposals for necessary amendments and additions to national legislation arising from the provisions of the Presidential Decree.

A new regulatory framework has been adopted in Uzbekistan establishing comprehensive rules for accessing and using the infrastructure of the public railway network. The regulation introduces a unified, transparent, and nondiscriminatory model that governs how carriers both state-owned and private interact with the country’s rail infrastructure, including tracks, stations, hubs, electrical systems, dispatching centers, signaling, communication networks, and safety systems.

The aim of the reform is to modernize the management of the railway sector, encourage private transport operators, and create reliable mechanisms for infrastructure financing, maintenance, and modernization.

Objectives and Conceptual Foundations

The newly introduced rules are designed to ensure that all carriers, regardless of ownership form, receive equal access to railway infrastructure. They aim to:

• increase the efficiency of infrastructure utilization;
• stimulate the involvement of private sector operators;
• establish a level competitive environment;
• strengthen the long-term financial sustainability of infrastructure maintenance and upgrades.

The framework defines the principles of transparency, fairness, and technological neutrality. Each carrier must receive the same opportunities for access, scheduling, capacity allocation, and service provision, while the infrastructure operator is obligated to act solely on the basis of unified standards and technical requirements.

General Structure of the Rules

The regulation outlines a complete system governing:

• definitions and key concepts used in railway operations;
• rights and responsibilities of the infrastructure operator;
• obligations and rights of carriers (transport service users);
• technical, operational, and safety requirements;
• procedures for submitting and approving applications for access;
• rules for allocating railway capacity and forming train schedules;
• mechanisms for managing disruptions, delays, repairs, and unexpected operational constraints;
• rules for providing coordinated services, including locomotive assistance, dispatching, inspection, and other technical functions;
• requirements for financial transparency and cost-based pricing;
• obligations for reporting, record-keeping, and information transparency;
• standardized forms and documentation, including the unified infrastructure access application form.

Definitions and Key Terms

The rules establish a unified terminology to ensure consistency across the industry. Among the terms included are:

• Infrastructure services – all services related to access to railway infrastructure, including traffic management, dispatching, signaling, power supply, technical inspection, placement, and routing of trains.
• Infrastructure objects – tracks, stations, depots, hubs, energy supply systems, communication networks, and other components forming the unified technological complex.
• Train characteristics – weight, length, composition, traction requirements, axle loads, braking systems, and other technical metrics required for scheduling and safe movement.
• Capacity allocation – the process of distributing available train paths among users in accordance with objective criteria, operational intensity, and infrastructure capabilities.
• Application (order request) – the standardized form submitted by carriers for obtaining the right to use specific infrastructure services within defined timeframes.

These terms serve as the foundation for the technical and operational regulations that follow.

Responsibilities of the Infrastructure Operator

The regulation imposes extensive responsibilities on the infrastructure operator, covering technical, operational, informational, and administrative obligations. Among them:

I. Technical readiness

The operator must ensure that all infrastructure objects remain in safe, operational condition. This includes:

• timely repairs and inspections;
• coordination of maintenance schedules;
• ensuring the reliability of signaling, power supply, and safety systems;
• preventing disruptions affecting train movements.

II. Provision of accurate and timely information

The operator must supply carriers with full and updated information on:

• available capacity;
• technical characteristics of routes and stations;
• schedule constraints and operational limitations;
• temporary restrictions caused by repairs or emergencies;
• conditions for the movement of different types of trains.

III. Non-discriminatory service provision

All carriers must receive infrastructure services:

• under equal conditions;
• with uniform technical and procedural requirements;
• without giving unnecessary preference to any company or transport type.

IV. Operational assistance

The operator must provide, when required:

• dispatching and traffic management;
• locomotive coupling or shifting assistance;
• technical inspection of trains;
• emergency response services.

V. Safety and compliance

The operator controls adherence to safety norms and may suspend or deny access if a carrier violates technical or safety requirements.

Rights and Obligations of Carriers

Carriers using the railway infrastructure must:

• comply strictly with safety standards;
• ensure train readiness, including braking systems, weight limitations, technical documentation, and crew qualifications;
• follow dispatching instructions and route assignments;
• provide accurate information on cargo types, train parameters, and schedules;
• inform the operator of any circumstances affecting safe train movements.

They also have the right to:

• receive infrastructure services under equal conditions;
• access all necessary information for planning their operations;
• challenge decisions they consider discriminatory or inconsistent with established rules.

Access Procedures and Application Requirements

A central element of the new framework is the modernized procedure for submitting and approving applications for infrastructure use.

Standardized requirements

Applications must include:

• carrier details;
• requested routes and times;
• technical characteristics of trains;
• safety-related information;
• supporting documentation proving compliance.

Clear review timelines

The operator must review applications within established timeframes, eliminating subjective delays and administrative uncertainty.

Contracting

Once an application is approved, a contract is signed defining:

• the scope of services;
• the terms of access;
• liabilities and responsibilities;
• pricing principles.

The regulation introduces a unified application form, simplifying the process and ensuring consistency across carriers.

Capacity Allocation and Scheduling

The rules set forth detailed mechanisms for forming and approving the train movement schedule.

The operator must:

• evaluate the technical feasibility of carrier requests;
• consider infrastructure capacity, repair schedules, and operational loads;
• balance competing applications based on transparent criteria;
• coordinate schedules across stations, hubs, and neighboring regions;
• ensure that safety margins and technical limits are never exceeded.

Carriers may request changes during operations, but such adjustments must not compromise the overall stability of the movement schedule.

Handling Disruptions and Emergency Situations

The regulation establishes procedures for:

• infrastructure failures;
• unexpected technical problems;
• delays caused by weather, accidents, or overloaded routes;
• cases where carriers violate safety or operational norms.

The operator may:

• reroute trains;
• adjust schedules;
• temporarily limit access;
• require additional inspections or documentation.

Carriers are obligated to cooperate fully and promptly.

Economic Principles and Payment Mechanisms

The document introduces a modern model of financial relations between carriers and the infrastructure operator, including:

Transparent pricing mechanism

Payment for infrastructure services is based on:

• the type and intensity of infrastructure use;
• the characteristics of train movement;
• actual operational costs;
• maintenance and modernization needs.

Use of revenue

Income generated from access fees must be directed toward:

• maintaining infrastructure;
• upgrading outdated equipment;
• improving safety systems;
• ensuring the long-term stability of the railway network.

Financial transparency

The operator is required to maintain transparent accounting and make financial information available upon request.

Supervision and Accountability

Compliance with the rules is monitored by relevant supervisory bodies. The infrastructure operator must regularly report on:

• the status of infrastructure;
• service provision statistics;
• financial operations;
• incidents, delays, and emergency responses.

Carriers may file complaints if they believe access conditions were applied unfairly or inconsistently.

Final Provisions

The regulation concludes by confirming that:

• its implementation will be continuously monitored;
• all related regulatory and technical acts must be brought into full alignment;
• any outdated norms are subject to revision or cancellation.

Conclusion

The new regulatory framework represents a major shift toward a more open, transparent, and competitive railway market. By introducing equal access conditions, strengthening the role of private operators, and defining comprehensive rules for the use of infrastructure, Uzbekistan takes an important step toward modernizing its transport sector and aligning it with international best practices.

The reform is expected to enhance efficiency, reduce delays, eliminate administrative barriers, and support sustainable development of the railway system.

In October 2025, Uzbekistan introduced a series of significant legal reforms aimed at strengthening the mediation institute as a central mechanism for pre-trial dispute resolution. These reforms, codified in recent amendments to multiple legislative acts, are designed to improve the efficiency, transparency, and accessibility of dispute resolution, while also accommodating disputes involving foreign investors and encouraging amicable settlements at any stage of litigation.

Objectives and Scope of Mediation Reform

The 2025 reforms reflect a strategic effort by the Uzbek government to institutionalize mediation as an effective tool for alternative dispute resolution (ADR). Key objectives include:

Expanding the scope of mediation to cover disputes between individuals, business entities, and foreign investors, ensuring that conflicts are addressed before entering lengthy litigation processes.

Promoting amicable settlements at any stage of judicial proceedings, enabling parties to reach mutually acceptable resolutions even during ongoing litigation.

Reducing judicial workload by diverting suitable disputes to mediation, thereby allowing courts to focus on complex cases requiring formal adjudication.

Enhancing legal certainty and investor confidence by formalizing mediation as a recognized and enforceable mechanism within the Uzbek legal framework.

The legislation emphasizes that mediation is not limited to domestic disputes but can be effectively applied to commercial conflicts involving international parties, a move expected to strengthen Uzbekistan’s appeal as an investment-friendly jurisdiction.

Mediators’ Professional Standards and Ethics

The law introduces stringent requirements for mediators to ensure professionalism, integrity, and ethical conduct. These include:

Mandatory higher education for all professional mediators.

Periodic professional development, requiring mediators to undergo training and recertification at least once every three years.

Compliance with professional ethics, with explicit sanctions for violations, including disciplinary measures or suspension of mediation authority.

These standards aim to safeguard the quality of mediation, instill confidence among disputing parties, and ensure that mediators operate with impartiality, competence, and accountability.

Mediation Procedures and Voluntary Compliance

Mediation under the new framework operates as a voluntary and flexible process, emphasizing consensual dispute resolution:

Parties are encouraged to engage professional mediators at the earliest stage of dispute to prevent escalation.

Mediated agreements are formalized in writing and may be notarized, providing legal recognition and evidentiary weight.

Parties retain autonomy in negotiating settlement terms, promoting solutions that are mutually beneficial and contextually appropriate.

The reforms clarify that mediation can be applied at any stage, including before litigation, during proceedings, or even after initial court rulings, reinforcing its role as a versatile ADR mechanism.

Enforcement of Mediated Agreements

A cornerstone of the 2025 reforms is the recognition and enforceability of mediated agreements:

If parties fail to voluntarily comply with a mediated agreement, the law permits application to the court for an enforcement order (execution sheet).

Enforcement may be refused in the following circumstances:

This mechanism ensures that mediation outcomes carry real legal weight, balancing voluntary settlement with enforceability while maintaining judicial oversight.

Legislative Amendments

The reforms have introduced amendments to multiple key legislative acts to integrate mediation effectively:

Notary Law establishes procedures for notarizing mediated agreements, providing formal legal recognition.

Civil Procedure Code outlines procedures for applying for enforcement orders for mediated agreements.

Family Code integrates mediation in family law disputes, including divorce, child custody, and property division.

Law on Execution of Judicial and Other Acts codifies the process for executing mediated agreements.

These amendments collectively institutionalize mediation across civil, commercial, and family disputes, providing a comprehensive legal infrastructure for ADR in Uzbekistan.

Special Considerations for Foreign Investors

A key focus of the reforms is facilitating dispute resolution involving international parties:

The legal framework ensures that investor-related disputes can be resolved efficiently before resorting to litigation, promoting business continuity and reducing the risk of protracted legal battles.

Mediation agreements with foreign investors are enforceable under Uzbek law, offering predictable legal remedies in cross-border contexts.

This approach strengthens Uzbekistan’s investment climate, signaling commitment to transparent, professional, and enforceable dispute resolution mechanisms.

Practical Implications for Businesses and Individuals

The reforms provide clear guidance for practical implementation:

Engage professional mediators early to resolve disputes efficiently.

Formalize agreements in writing, and notarize if required to enhance enforceability.

If voluntary compliance fails, seek enforcement through the court system using the execution sheet mechanism.

Monitor mediator conduct, as violations of professional ethics or law can be challenged through legal procedures.

Businesses can leverage mediation to reduce litigation costs, accelerate dispute resolution, and maintain commercial relationships, while individuals can benefit from quicker, less adversarial resolutions.

Conclusion

These reforms mark a significant step forward in the development of Uzbekistan’s mediation and ADR framework. By broadening the scope of mediation, introducing stringent professional and ethical standards for mediators, and ensuring enforceability of mediated agreements, the legislation provides a modern, reliable, and investor-friendly alternative to traditional litigation.

These changes not only enhance the efficiency of dispute resolution and reduce the burden on courts but also foster a legal environment conducive to amicable settlements and sustained commercial relationships. Importantly, by integrating mediation across civil, commercial, and family law, Uzbekistan aligns its legal framework with international ADR standards, signaling transparency, predictability, and professionalism to both domestic and foreign stakeholders.

In practice, these reforms empower parties to resolve disputes effectively while maintaining control over outcomes, reinforcing mediation as a cornerstone of Uzbekistan’s evolving legal and business landscape.

According to the Decree of the President of Republic of Uzbekistan “on measures to improve the regulation of organizing and conducting lotteries and games based on risk” dated on April 19, 2024, in order to implement advanced foreign experience and modern technologies starting from January 2025, it is permitted to carry out activities on organizing games based on risk, lotteries and online games on the Internet, as well as, bookmaker activity.

Licensing of such as activity is going to be carried out by The National Agency of Perspective Projects of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

Government bodies and organizations, as well as charitable foundations and private organizations are going to be allowed to conduct lotteries exclusively through lottery organizers on a contractual basis.

Only residents and non-residents of the Republic of Uzbekistan who have reached the age of 18 are allowed to participate in lotteries, online games and bookmaker bets.

The National Agency of Perspective Projects of the Republic of Uzbekistan and General Prosecutors Office of the Republic of Uzbekistan will perform full monitoring and controlling of the compliance of organizers of lotteries, online games and bookmaking activities with legislative acts on combating the legalization of proceeds from criminal activity, the financing of terrorism and the financing of the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.

Starting from January 01, 2025 and for the period of 5 (five) years:

legal entities engaged in the organization of lotteries, online games or bookmaker activities are going to pay a turnover tax at a rate of 4 (four) percent, levied on the total income from such activity minus all paid winnings and returned bets.

income of individuals received from winnings in lotteries, online games, bookmaker bets, conducted on the basis of licenses issued by the above mentioned Agency, is exempt from paying personal income tax.

Upon from the Presidential Decree, The National Agency of Perspective Projects of the Republic of Uzbekistan along with other Ministries are supposed to submit to the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan a draft of a government decision regulating:

– procedures for organizing lotteries; online games and bookmaker activities, including licensing requirements;

– procedures for creating Unified Government Register of Bets and Players, as well as its maintenance by the licensing authority;

– amendments and additions to the Tax Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan, the Laws “On State Duty”, “On licensing, permitting and notification procedures”, “On advertisement” and others.

Most Important General Provisions. Chapter I. General Legal Entities.

According to a Law №. LRU-959 dated 09.10.2024 “On amendments and additions to certain legislative acts of the Republic of Uzbekistan in connection with further improvement of the system of legal protection of intellectual property”, a copyright holder may request a violator to pay a compensation instead of indemnification (damages), for the illegal use of intellectual property objects.

Compensation amount could vary from 7.500.000 to 375.000.000 UZS (approx. from 585 to 29.000 USD), depending on different circumstances.

In this case, compensation is paid regardless of the fact of causing any damages (losses).

According to the Resolution of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On the Approval of the Strategy for the Development of Artificial Intelligence Technologies until 2030”, during next 6 years following goal have to be achieved:

* software products and services based on artificial intelligence have to be brought up to a 1.5 billion USD;

* services provided by the unified portal of interactive public services based on artificial intelligence have to reach 10 percent;

* bringing the number of scientific labs operating in the field of artificial intelligence to 10 units;

* launch of high-performance computing servers;

* bringing the country into the top 50 states in the Government AI Readiness Index for artificial intelligence.

Priority goals and objectives for the development of artificial intelligence technologies include:

* formation of a regulatory legal framework;

* improvement of standards and strengthening international cooperation;

* creation of technical infrastructure for data processing and launching projects;

* implementation of priority projects in social sphere and economic sectors;

* improving the knowledge and skills of the population, as well as developing human resources.

Prioritized areas for introduction and implementation of artificial intelligence technologies are:

* in banking and financial sector: fraud prevention, assessment of users’ solvency, forecasting market trends;

* in tax and customs sector: reducing the share of the shadow economy, forecasting suspicious customs operations and risk management;

* in healthcare sector: determination of diagnosis methods, disease treatment, medical images analysis and patient’s data management;

* in agriculture sector: yields forecast, agriculture resource management, monitoring of growing sowings, poultry, fish and livestock processes;

* in energy sector: energy management, optimization of energy production and distribution, development of use of renewable energy sources.

For the achievement of above mentioned goals, starting from January 01, 2025, the Fund for Reconstruction and Development of Uzbekistan will provide The Ministry of Digital Technologies of the Republic of Uzbekistan with an interest-free 5 years’ loan in the amount of 50 million USD for the development of an artificial intelligence technologies.

According to the Resolution of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan № PR-3832, “On measures to develop the digital economy and the sphere of turnover of crypto assets in the Republic of Uzbekistan”, mining considered to be one of the activities in a field of crypto assets.

Mining is an activity of maintaining a distributed data registry, creating and confirming the integrity of blocks by performing computational operations.

Mining could be carried out exclusively by a legal entity using electricity generated by a solar photovoltaic power plant.

In case of using electricity with connection to a unified electric power system, payment for consumed electricity is carried out using an increasing coefficient to the established tariff.

During the peak period, surcharges to the corresponding tariffs for electricity consumption established by the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan are applied.

Electricity consumption is recorded with the installation of a separate metering device.

Mining is subject to mandatory registration by the National Agency of Perspective Projects of the Republic of Uzbekistan and does not require any licensing.

Legal entities engaged in mining (miners) are required to register in accordance with the procedure established by the legislative acts of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

Registration of miners is carried out exclusively in electronic form via the Internet.

Miners have the right to carry out their activities exclusively at the address specified during registration, in compliance with fire safety and sanitary norms, rules and guidelines.

Starting from January 1, 2023, physical persons and legal entities of the Republic of Uzbekistan are allowed to can carry out a purchase, sale and (or) exchange of crypto assets exclusively through national service providers in accordance with the procedure established by legislative acts of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

Licensing procedures, issuance, registration of issuance and circulation of crypto assets by residents of the Republic of Uzbekistan, amount and procedure of payment of government fees are determined by the National Agency of Perspective Projects of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

Miners using solar photovoltaic power plants have the right to tax, customs and other preferences as well as benefits in field of renewable energy sources in accordance with the procedure established by legislative acts of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

It is prohibited to carry out hidden mining as well as anonymous mining of crypto assets.

All the other procedures covering licensing activity of service providers in the field of turnover of crypto assets are governed by the Regulation “on the procedure for licensing the activities of service providers in the field of turnover of crypto assets” as a part (Annex) of the Order of the Director of the National Agency of Perspective Projects of the Republic of Uzbekistan № 3380.

Short legal summary on regulation of outstaffing (outsourcing) services in Uzbekistan covering aspects of governance of such an activity under Uzbek Law, including outstaffing service provisions, types of unauthorized outstaffing services, terms of oustaffing contracts and agreements, regulation of labor (employments) relations between outstaffing company, accepting (hosting) company and the employees.

For more detailed information, please read attached legal report.

Revised Law on Subsoil in Uzbekistan will take effect in February 2025. President of the Republic of Uzbekistan has signed a new edition of the Law on Subsoil aimed to renew and update legislative provisions related to the possession, use, protection of mineral resources as well as disposal of mineral wealth.

Under this edition, the subsoil, including all found minerals naturally occurred in the subsoil, will remain state’s property, despite of someone’s land and water rights and are subject to rational usage protected by the government.

Uzbek legislation prohibits inheritance, sale, gifting, donation, pledge and usage of the subsoil resources as a collateral, with only one exception, an ability to transfers the rights of usage of subsoil resources in accordance with permissive procedures governed by the law.

Simplification and transparency of potential investor’s rights and obligations, as well as rationalization of licensing and permit obtaining process, including provisions governing geological data possession, ownership and sharing and those aspects governing subsoil usage rights could be one of the key factors attracting more foreign investors.

According to the Law № LRU-954, the Law “On Competition” № LRU 850, as part of the reforms on advancement in the field of competition development and consumer protection, is being amended, where business entity’s activities belonging to the subject of natural monopoly are going to be considered as entity’s main activity.

In order to liberalize the punishment system, those business entities with low economic impact degree, that committed a violation of competition law for the first time, will not be a subject to financial sanctions (penalties), instead, it will be getting a warning, preventing such an offence for the second time.

Financial sanctions in form of a fine shall be applied judicially, except when the offender admits the guilt and pays it voluntarily.

Receiving of warning, as well as paying a fine, does not exempt a person (entity) committing a violation of competition law from the obligation to comply with a decision (instruction) of an authorized state body or perform other actions covered by the competition legislature.

Competition Promotion and Consumer Protection Committee of the Republic of Uzbekistan will have to coordinate projects on competition in commodity and financial markets and provide related government support.

Cases of violations of competition law with a low economic impact degree are determined by the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

Based on a Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers No. 720 “On Measures to Improve and Comprehensively Systematize the Sphere of Public – Private Partnership” new Regulation covering implementation of Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects has been approved.

It defines following aspects:

* Initial Project Evaluation;

* Implementation of Project Initiative;

* PPP Project Preparation by Private and Public Initiator;

* Tender Documentation and Commission;

* PPP Agreement;

* Negotiation Procedures;

* PPP Projects Registry;

* PPP Projects Prices and Services Determination;

* PPP Projects Monitoring and Reporting Procedures;

* Project Financing Procedures;

* Cost Assurance and others.

For more detailed information, please read attached legal report.

According to the Presidential Decree № DP 109 «On Measures to Accelerate the Development of Factoring Services Market», starting from January 2025 it is allowed to establish factoring organizations engaged in financial activities for the assignment of monetary claims.

Factoring organization’s activity will be carried out after registration at the Central Bank of the Republic of Uzbekistan, carried out by entering it into the registry as a non-bank credit organization.

Starting from January 2025, it will be allowed to:

– carry out factoring operations in foreign currency, if the client’s counterparty is a non-resident;

– to resell (refactoring) monetary claims acquired under factoring agreements to credit institutions.

Liability for violation of the prohibition on assignment of a monetary claim will be revoked.
In order to ensure the priority of claims for the assigned rights, notifications of the assignment of monetary claims are going to be registered in a collateral registry.

Change of currency of monetary obligations and the country of payment without the consent of the debtor will not be allowed.

Introduction of electronic platform for factoring services was also approved by the President.

Factoring platform will have following features:

– introduction by business entities of information and documents on monetary requirements for the use of factoring services;

– automation of financing process by verifying the authenticity of documents that are the basis of monetary claims, as well as ensuring the prompt collection of information about debtors and its analysis in real time;

– providing a convenient, fast and secure technological infrastructure for the provision of factoring services by credit institutions to participants in the supply chain.

In order to popularize and develop factoring services, develop industry standards, and strengthen ties between factoring market participants, based on initiative of commercial banks and microfinance organizations a National Factoring Association will be established.

In order to create opportunities for the widespread use of factoring in the implementation of foreign trade operations starting from January 1, 2025 on the basis of an agreement on the acquisition of receivables under an export contract:

– if the credit institutions providing factoring services (financial agents) are residents, information about them is entered into the Unified electronic information system for foreign trade operations as a recipient of foreign currency funds under the export contract and these financial agents are responsible for ensuring the fulfillment of the requirement to repatriate assets;

– If the financial agents are non-residents, the obligation to enforce the asset repatriation requirement remains with the exporter.

According to the Presidential Resolution «on Accession to International Treaties» № RP 362, in accordance with article 23 of the Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan «On International Treaties of the Republic of Uzbekistan», Uzbekistan intends to join:

– The Second Additional Protocol to the General Regulations of the Universal Postal Union (Addis Ababa);

– The Third Additional Protocol to the General Regulations of the Universal Postal Union (Abidjan);

– Universal Postal Convention (Abidjan);

– The Final Protocol of the Universal Postal Convention (Abidjan);

– Agreement on Postal Payment Services (Abidjan);

– The Final Protocol of the Agreement on Postal Payment Services (Abidjan).

The Ministry of Digital Technologies of the Republic of Uzbekistan is going to be the competent authority responsible for the implementation of these international agreements.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan shall send to the Director General of the International Bureau of the Universal Postal Union a corresponding notification on the accession of the Republic of Uzbekistan to the specified international treaties.

The Cabinet of Ministers and the heads of relevant ministries and departments, after the entry into force of these international treaties, in accordance with the established procedure, shall ensure control over the implementation of their provisions.

According to the Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan № LRU 988 “On Amendments to the Criminal Code of the Republic of Uzbekistan for the Aim of Prevention of Corruption in the Field of Sports”, starting from November 4, 2024, the illegal receipt by an athlete, coach, sports referee or other participants and organizers of sports competitions of material values or property benefits for the performance or non-performance of a certain action in the interests of the person engaged in bribery, which they should have or could have committed in order to intentionally change the results or course of sports competitions is punishable by a fine from approx. 1450 USD to 2900 USD or deprivation of a certain right for up to 3 years or restriction of freedom from 1 year to 3 years or imprisonment from 1 year to 3 years.

Additionally, if the same actions will be committed repeatedly, on a large scale, by extortion or by prior agreement of a group of persons are punishable by a fine from approx. 2900 USD to 8800 USD or deprivation of a certain right from 3 to 5 years or restriction of freedom from 3 to 5 years or imprisonment from 3 to 5years.

The same actions committed on a particularly large scale by an organized group or in its interests will be punishable by a fine from approx. 8800 USD to 17500 USD or imprisonment from five to eight years.

A person who provided material values or property benefits is released from liability if extortion of material values or property benefits took place against him and this person voluntarily declared the incident within thirty days after committing criminal acts, sincerely repented and actively contributed to the disclosure of the crime.

This Law will serve to improve national legislation taking into account modern international standards and advanced foreign experience, form an uncompromising attitude towards corruption, ensure the inevitability of responsibility for crimes in the field of sports, as well as strengthen the image of the country in the international arena.

On December 31, 2022, a new Law of the Republic of Uzbekistan “On Electronic Commerce” entered into legal force, regulating relations in e-commerce field.
General provisions include following definitions:
digital products (electronic copies of intellectual property objects), as well as execution of certain actions in the electronic information environment or the implementation of certain activities that do not have a tangible result, including services for the purchase and subscription to cloud technology services;

electronic trading platform, an information system that allows the purchase and sale of goods (services) remotely;

electronic trading platform operator, a legal entity providing electronic trading platform services to ecommerce participants;
e-commerce, the purchase and sale of goods according to an agreement concluded through an electronic trading platform, using information systems within the framework of business activity;

e-commerce operator, a legal entity providing services related to the circulation of electronic documents and electronic messages;
e-commerce entities, e-commerce participants and/or e-commerce operators.

Main principals of e-commerce include freedom of doing business in e-commerce field, voluntary conclusion of e-commerce contracts, equality of conditions for participation in e-commerce, protection of rights and legitimate interests of e-commerce entities, proper quality of goods (works,
services), openness and transparency of e-commerce processes as well as information security.

E-Commerce Law also covers government regulations of e-commerce activity including powers of the Cabinet of Minster of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Ministry of Digital Technologies of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

Moreover, it clearly specifies payment methods in e-commerce fields, certain specifics in terms of making payments, system of deposition (escrow) of funds as well as features of goods delivery, goods replacement with defects and/or elimination of those defects and terms of a refund.